Ancient / Classical History

  1. Home
  2. Education
  3. Ancient / Classical History

Epiphany and the Magi

Names of the Magi

By N.S. Gill, About.com

In the conventional version of the Christmas story [see: A Medieval Christmas for more information], the wise men or magi (Gaspar, Melchior and Balthasar) started the gift giving custom of Christmas by bringing gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the Christ child on Epiphany.

Epiphany is the end of the Christmas season, 12 days after Christmas. The mass for Christ (Christ + Mass = Christmas) is often celebrated the evening before Christmas day, and Epiphany is often celebrated as the Twelfth Night. Gift giving in some cultures extends throughout the twelve days of Christmas and in some places is limited to January 5 or 6 (just as for those who celebrate only Christmas, gifts are exchanged on either December 24, Christmas Eve, or December 25, Christmas Day). Many Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas on January 7 because of the difference between the Gregorian and Julian calendars.

The magi have been described not only as wise men but kings and Persian priests and astrologers.

Christianity Glossary

More Ancient / Classical History Quick Tips

Explore Ancient / Classical History

More from About.com

Ancient / Classical History

  1. Home
  2. Education
  3. Ancient / Classical History
  4. Myth / Beliefs
  5. Monotheism - 1 God
  6. Christianity Glossary
  7. 3 Magi - Names of the 3 Wise Men

©2008 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.