The Magi, often referred to as Wise Men or Three Kings, appear in the New Testament in the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 2, verses 1-12. They came from the east to Jerusalem, following a star that announced the birth of Jesus, the King of the Jews. The Bible does not specify their exact number, though tradition holds there were three, likely because of the three gifts mentioned: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

Matthew 2:1-2 says, “Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.”

These Magi are often depicted as kings themselves in Christian tradition, coming from different corners of the known world to pay homage to the newborn Messiah. Their gifts are symbolic: gold representing Jesus’ kingship, frankincense his priestly role, and myrrh, a spice used for embalming, prefiguring his death and burial.

The visit of the Magi highlights the recognition of Jesus’ importance beyond the Jewish people, symbolizing the universality of his mission.