Magi from the east ― The Greek transliterated term magi (μάγοι) derives from the Persian word magoi. Its origin refers to a class of priests from Persia (and part of the Median tribe) associated with the Zoroastrian religion. However, the term became more popular to refer to ‘astrologer’ or ‘kabbalist’, which was an academic pursuit rather than an ethnic identification. Magi is the same word used of “Barjesus”/ Elymas in Acts 13:6-8 informing us that the title magi doesn’t preclude these “wise men” from being Jews themselves. The word Magi doesn’t seem to indicate ethnic status but rather an occupational or academic proficiency.

❑ The magi are mentioned as coming from the east indicating that these are some of the Jews who remained in Babylon. These Jews studied among the Zoroastrian experts in astrology while adhering to an early form of kabbalah[1].

❑ Magi were known for their expertise in astrology and interpretation of dreams, indicating some level of scholarship passed down from Daniel who became a head over the magi in the Babylonian court[2].

[1] Kabbalah is an esoteric practice within Judaism that seeks to explain the nature of the Divine, the creation of the universe, and the human soul's connection to Hashem. [2] Antiquities of the Jews 10.11.7