The meaning of “μάγος”
Understanding mágos reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
of foreign origin (רַב־מָג) sorcerer, wise man. - a Magian, i.e. Oriental scientist - by implication, a magician
μάγος
of foreign origin (רַב־מָג) sorcerer, wise man. - a Magian, i.e. Oriental scientist - by implication, a magician
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 2:1 | “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,” Word: μάγος (mágos) | |
| Matthew 2:7 | “Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, enquired of them diligently what time the star appeared.” Word: μάγος (mágos) | |
| Matthew 2:16 | “Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently enquired of the wise men.” Word: μάγος (mágos) | |
| Acts 13:6 | “And when they had gone through the isle unto Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name was Bar–jesus:” Word: μάγος (mágos) | |
| Acts 13:8 | “But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith.” Word: μάγος (mágos) |