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Book Review of The Three Wise Men: The History and Legacy of the Biblical Magi

The Three Wise Men: The History and Legacy of the Biblical Magi
jjares avatar reviewed on + 3295 more book reviews


Not much is known about the three wise men because they are only mentioned in one book of the Bible. It is unknown if they were kings, or even where they came from or went after their trip to Bethlehem. However, Charles Rivers takes the story apart and looks at it from various perspectives. The most interesting fact is that Jesus was born in April, not December. Another interesting fact is learning where "Maji" comes from -- it is a Persian word.

After reading this, I really understand so much more about Herod and the whole fight between the Jews and why they did not like Herod. It makes so much more sense now. I really learned a great deal in this book.