Epiphany

 We Three Kings    #254 Verse 5Glorious now behold him arise; King and God and sacrifice: Alleluia, Alleluia, Sounds through the earth and the skies. O star of wonder, star of light, Star with royal beauty bright, Westward leading, still proceeding, Guide us to thy perfect light.

This hymn was quite controversial when it was published in the mid-1800’s.  Many theologians refused to recognize it since it translated the Greek word “magi” from Matthew 2 into “kings.”  This didn’t seem to bother the author, Rev. John Henry Hopkins. 

In ancient times, “Magi” were a priestly caste in Media and Persia, who practiced astrology and forecasting the future based on the stars.  Considering the practices of the times, we can assume that the three magi did not come by themselves but traveled with a rather large group that provided protection.  It is also the only way, Harrod’s notice of them makes sense as three lone...continue reading