Who are the Magi - Myth and History

The Magi are famed as ancient keepers of esoteric wisdom. From serving as Zoroastrian priests, experts on the occult sciences - especially astrology - and most famously following a mysterious star to the infant messiah Jesus. Indeed, no image of Christmas can be conjured without them presenting their three gifts. What do we know about the Magi? How did the mythology around them develop in early Christianity? How were these pagan priest-kings understood by early Christian theologians? Join @TheEsotericaChannel as we explore the Magi of history, myth and theology.
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Recommended Readings -
Eykel - The Magi - 978-1506473734
Moazami - Zoroastrianism - 978-1934283486
Burke & Landau (eds) - New Testament Apocrypha, vol. 1-3

[@TheEsotericaChannel]

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[@MarcillaSmith]

TY for the informative video! I'm curious to know more about the link from Christianity to esotericism. What I mean is that in this story, we see the two brushing up against one another, but not really a connection. Is there a link from Christianity post-Nicaea to the occult? I want to say the Golden Dawn has Christian roots? In a more practical sense, where does one begin, rather than studying in parallel, if that makes any sense. IOW, not learning all new material that seems otherwise disconnected, but maybe starting with something such as gematria, which (I assume?) can be applied to the canonical scriptures, once understood.

[@FoodNerds]

I appreciate that you take an academic approach. Happy Holidays 🎉, Merry Christmas 🎄 and Happy New Year 🎆 🎉

[@Djkahled9999]

Why the comment about conspiracy theories and the Vatican library? So when you have a report to do, you go to the library to find the knowledge you seek. So a library which has been around for over 1500 years and controlled by a group who actually at one time had total control over all of western society. Yet, you throw in some bullshit remark. I'm an orphan and was not able to finish school and went to prison because I had the wrong type of business and uncle Sam wants his cut. After covid I'm really believe that most people who went to school and went to college have know critical thinking skills. How many fights does one have to have with an uninformed person about the dangers of gene therapeutics while I have all the data from the scientist who developed the tech. I'm listening very closely to what you say. There is something wrong with the world today and it all comes back to one group of racist who think they are chosen because their great, great, great..... grandfather learned how to right and made himself above all others. The same people see 10 wonders in Egypt yet when Moses walks away for a few moments, they melt their gold to worship a golden calf, baal. Question, where did the slaves get so much gold?

[@Djkahled9999]

I'm a real thinker and spend my time doing that. Not watching TV, or listening to garbage sounds called music. I don't do drugs or drink, and I don't lie. I am not a republican or a Democrat but today in these days I lean heavily towards the conservatives. I was a soldier for the left and I see their lies and hate.

[@Arnaere]

@@idontknowname-rl8yb Magi are a Persian tribe. Arrian records that they guarded the tombs of the emperors. They were all Persian and obviously associated with good astronomy. Magic is an import into Greek based on the tribe, whose system of divination was based on astrology.

[@Fr.O.G.]

There's a Philomena Cunk interview where she asks an expert "How many three wise men were there?" The expert responds with "Nobody really knows," which is the right answer, but it's played for laughs.

[@angelikaskoroszyn8495]

I think it was treated only half-jockingly. After they included her explanation for why nobody knows how many of them were

[@normalhuman666]

Its better to listen to the idea and story, and accept it is a story about our world that is trying to teach us something important, just like did a snake really talk in paradise about a magical fruit, or can a virgin give birth?

[@ulyssesm.daniels6927]

I literally had a video of her next to this video when I clicked it.

[@stevenkarner6872]

@@angelikaskoroszyn8495 Only half a jock? Meaning half an athlete or half a strap?

[@briannacery9939]

There should be a philosophical writing on the specialized use of faith and the use of intelligence, emotion, fact etc...or is there?

[@Bildgesmythe]

When my son was in preschool he came home excitingly telling me about the wise guys. Took me a while to realize he meant wise men.

[@Nozarks1]

How cute

[@ashemvidam]

As a Zoroastrian KZbinr, I wanted to say thank you for shining some light onto my religion in such a truthful way, and for wading through the absolute mess that is Zoroastrian studies to find that stuff out. I appreciated how well researched it was. One thing I wanted to say is that it “Zoroaster”, Zarathushtra Spitama as he called himself, can’t have existed anytime near the Achaemenid dynasty of Iran. The language he spoke, Gathic Avestan, is extremely similar to the Sanskrit of the RgVeda, and it is dated to either the middle of the RgVedic period or the very beginning, all dependent on what level of phonological change one adopts. Who knows when exactly the RgVedic era is, but I don’t think anybody puts it after 1000 BC. Either way thank you for making this video, and if you ever need help working on a video on Zoroastrianism, I’d love to help! Also, the Gathas are a masterpiece of ancient poetry, composed by Zarathushtra himself, and are a great read. I would recommend the translations by Dr Stanley Insler and Dr Ali Jafarey. Ushta te (may you have radiant happiness)

[@TheEsotericaChannel]

Thanks for this comment. And, yes, from one religious minority to another - I have great respect for Zoroastrianism and its adherents: a tremendously beautiful faith and tradition. But not, Zarathushtra was much, much before the adoption of his faith and reform by the western magi, for sure.

[@ashemvidam]

@@TheEsotericaChannel thank you for the kind words. In its own way, Zoroastrians and Jews being friendly feels like keeping a 2,500 year tradition alive. I agree about the Magi too, there are a lot of things debatably added by them that seem very contrary to the teachings of Zarathushtra, yet are still accepted by many even today. It’s all so fascinating 🙏

[@DavidVega-wi5pr]

Much respect to you and your faith I always found it fascinating and inspiring and I'm glad it's traditions are kept alive

[@Arnaere]

@Ashemvidam We know from the texts that they used original early Avestan, which puts the date of record at around 1600-1800 BC. The Romans and Greeks universally place Zoroaster either 6000 years before their time or 5000 years before the Trojan war. The problem with Muslims and rabbinicalists is that they project a late view of Zoroaster in a competitive bid for Abraham to be the first monotheist. Their problem is exacerbated by the fact that Abraham is from Ur of the Chaldees, a dynasty which existed at Ur in Iraq only between the 8th-6th centuries BC, which means that the earliest form of Judaism could not have existed before then. All material evidence points to Judaism being a 3rd century BC construction with all of the materials modern neo-rabbinicalists use dating to after the 9th century AD when their movement was first constructed. (they have no continuity with classical Judaism)

[@theleo3727]

Greetings from the Saoshyant.

[@ahobimo732]

Justin, I'm so grateful that you choose to share your work freely online. The research and analysis in your videos is worth vastly more than many of us could ever afford. You show faith in humanity by asking only that people pay what they can. I admire you very much. I hope you're sharing a magical holiday season with people you love. Thank you.

[@justplainamerican]

It seems ironic that I learn more about Christianity in an unbiased fashion from you, a Jewish scholar, than anywhere else. Thank you. I've long been distressed and disgusted by the antisemitism established early in the history of Christianity. I guess Christians didn't invent it but they sure have kept it alive and thriving. It never hurt anyone, you said. Right. I do appreciate your sarcasm. Thank you for your videos. I finally decided to comment. I've watched many of them and enjoy your presentations. You never come across as anti-christian and that speaks volumes on your character. May you and yours be blessed now and in the coming new year.

[@Oo7Hola]

Same here

[@Toastrodamus]

What did you think was going to happen? Strange comment.

[@basalix78]

When I was 5 years old, I dressed as one of the "3 kings" for my school's nativity play. I had the choice of Joseph, but I wanted the chocolate gold coins...

[@richardschneller7674]

I really appreciate the idea of taking faith seriously but not literally. A studious approach to all the beliefs of the world can’t help but be beneficial. This is such an interesting and human story. This is also very entertaining

[@Dowlphin]

When there is confidence at the root and hope at the crown, they mix in the heart as faith - the creator energy that is so effective through being balanced, not banging againt walls, not being one-eye-blind. _Perfection is 50 percent control._

[@harrys919]

@@Dowlphin explain in simple terms

[@roys.1889]

Hey doc. Listening to this episode at 3 AM in the morning a few days before Christmas. This year has been one of the worst I've had due to the loss of my mom and a few other troubles that happened throughout the year. Your channel and videos have been a constant companion for me and have brought me joy, knowledge, and peace of mind over the entire year; from Yahweh's historical origins, Paul's Ascent into the Kavode [sic], Yukio Mishima's physical primacy, that business with the Library of Alexandria being really small, to the breakdown of Jungian interpretations of Alchemy, I've learned a LOT about these topics and I've learned about people historical and beyond. So for me at least, _you_ are my Shining Star of Wisdom, Joy, and Peace in a year of tumult. Thank you, Doc. I deeply appreciate your work. Oh and one last thing: I really like the comparison of your interest in Christian theology and history as reading a rulebook to a game you'll never play; being a Catholic born in Southeast Asia watching all that Kabbalah stuff was my version of your experience with Christianity.

[@ScreebScreeb-qg9rp]

Keep on keeping on

[@kuroazrem5376]

You're not alone in this one. Hard year for me too.

[@Bildgesmythe]

So sorry, this time of year can hurt.

[@ruud_the_dude]

Glad you've found an outlet. May you find peace, and my your mother's memory be a blessing.

[@TheEsotericaChannel]

May your mom's memory be for a blessing. It really warms my heart - and I mean that - to hear that these videos are comforting to anyone enduring hardship. You matter and I want to express my sincere thanks for such a brave and kind comment. I'm so proud of this community and people like you. May we all be blessed with the strength to endure and thrive. The way out is through and we'll make it together.

[@stevemartindale4446]

We four Beatles of Liverpool are John in a taxi, Paul in a car George on a scooter beeping his hooter Following Ringo Starr. Well I’ve got that off my chest and I’ll get my coat!

[@aumathewarriormouse2549]

You win Christmas this year my friend, congrats! 😂🎉

[@davidstrickland1127]

Count arthur strong could not have put it better...he he

[@Stoneworks]

The church fathers’ writing as an RPG manual is absolutely hilarious

[@gabrielamaralpassos9537]

Stoneworks here? Damn, now esoterica is blessed

[@CrazyPablo44]

Loved this deep dive! I was raised in the Greek Orthodox tradition and treasure it…with ambivalence (I also have deep Manichaean tendencies). I’m grateful for perspective your on the Early Church Fathers and for clarifying much about Zoroastrian history in this video. I can’t wait for you to do a deep dive on Zoroastrianism!

[@cuzned1375]

This is among my favorite episodes on this stellar channel. Interesting and delightful thru and thru. I suppose it’s because Dr Justin is bringing his usual childlike wonder _and_ academic rigor to a topic with which i _thought_ i was familiar, thanks to my Protestant upbringing. I also found the inclusive closing message downright moving. That’s probably due in part to my growing affection for Dr Justin, along with (perhaps!) the Irish whiskey i’ve been enjoying while i listened. 😋

[@timitator2517]

The humor that you inject into your presentations is unequaled.

[@StCrimson667]

Later depictions of the Magi also serve a really interesting function during the Medieval period, explicitly depicting the three Magi as European, Arabic, and African to represent the three sphere of Christendom, Europe, "Asia" or the modern Middle East, and Africa (Ethiopia).

[@baaldiablo8459]

Hehe the bigger the lie eh?

[@RBzee112]

@@baaldiablo8459 it's was a metaphor. Historical texts were never about literal accuracy.

[@CM-zl3fk]

I am a Persian, our ancient religion is Zoroastrian. The Zoroastrian priest is called Magi.

[@davina3358]

I think the European, Arabic, and African representation is an attempt to Christianize the world which later happened during the Age of European Colonialism

[@justkiddin84]

@@CM-zl3fk Yes, he literally tells us this in the first third of the video.

[@georginawonder]

I grew up in Puerto Rico, and in our household in the mid 70s when I was a child, and as far as I can remember thanks to our parents especially my father, we used to celebrate “Los Tres Reyes Magos” which translates as “The Three Magi Kings”... I didn’t know who Santa Claus or Christmas was until I was an adolescent in the 80s. That’s when the tradition of the three magi kings started dying in our household. Thanks for sharing this informative video with us it was most interesting!

[@axelrivera6020]

Same, in our house we don't celebrate Christmas, just three kings day on Jan 5.

[@georginawonder]

@@axelrivera6020 Yes the Three Magi Kings were our Santa Clause

[@understories3210]

Peurto Rico has tons of "stars" that can be followed.

[@Magnulus76]

Historically, in both East and West, Epiphany or Theophany was the more important holiday. Christmas being a big thing was the result of Luther.

[@mjgerleman]

Did you leave grass out for the wise men's camels?

[@augusthavince8909]

Wisdom, Joy and Peace to you, Dr. Sledge.

[@kieferonline]

This is an excellent lecture. Thank you for sharing your scholarship! Even if you are not a Christian, you present these ideas in a neutral, yet respectful manner. You have my respect.

[@SquizzMe]

Generalizing entire religions as "mythology" is hardly respectful, but it's a great video regardless.

[@rudolfambrozenvtuber]

​@@SquizzMe Mythology is a completely neutral term academically. It essentially refers to a genre

[@lxDastanxl]

​​@@SquizzMe mythology is actually a theory not true or false since many believe it, so it's ok to refer it as a myth since faith alone it's need it

[@rudolfambrozenvtuber]

@@lxDastanxl No? That's not what I meant. Myth as a genre refers to stories of divine beings, those who they oppose, and how they alter nature and civilization

[@lxDastanxl]

@@rudolfambrozenvtuber lol that's true I got confused my explanation is about legend not myth

[@KCreading-Writing]

Another stellar presentation, Doc. When hearing the Magi and the Star of Bethlehem story, I think of Arthur C. Clarke's THE STAR, where a Vatican astronomer goes in search of the star, or supernova, that God used to herald Jesus' birth. Its conclusion is definitely not what the reader expects.

[@tgh2048]

The 1980s Twilight Zone show made an episode of that story.

[@sarahenson9659]

That story has lived rent free in my brain since I first read it - in high school English class of all places.

[@jamesonstalanthasyu]

Woah, I'd love to see a movie about the 9 month journey of Wiseman travelling with their army to see Baby Jesus. Like a fantastical Ridley Scott version.

[@Cross-Carrier]

" Gandalf like wizards with thier hats and bears that appear everywhere " * sounds like you doctor Sledge 👍🏼

[@Gizziiusa]

What's so strange about this is, all during my life (im mid 50's in age), the term "Magi" was never used. It was always "3 Kings, 3 Wise Men, 3 Wise Kings from the East". When I found out (stumbled upon in wikipedia) that the real title was "Biblical Magi"....I was baffled. Never ever heard them called that prior. Maybe thats the case for some others too ?

[@enzocompanbadillo5365]

Not for us in hispanic countries, though. Los Tres Reyes Magos (The three Magi Kings) brought us gifts every year before the popularization of the americanized Santa Claus

[@Gizziiusa]

ah, ok. thanks for the comment and info. Magi King huh ?! wow, interesting.@@enzocompanbadillo5365

[@AzraNoxx]

I feel like large parts of this channel could fit the motto: "Take that - historical or doctrinal validity!" If there's a short story, someone is going to write the cinematic universe of it. First Enoch, now the Magi.

[@c.m.cordero1772]

lol. My son-in-law is Persian. Although he’s technically Muslim he happily helps us put his “ cousins” up in the manger scene every year. That has become his job. 😊

[@gypsydonovan]

TLTR: I just gave my entire bio but the point was to show how ridiculous it is that the KZbin algorithm hasn’t introduced me to this channel until now. I guess it’s an Xmas present & I’ll be binging for days. I’m very glad to have found you! - Crys I have absolutely no idea how this is the first video I’ve been recommended. I’ve had an interest in philosophy, theology, folklore, the occult & the esoteric all my life. My mother was fascinated by human psychology and belief systems. She was also very interested in true crime, which fits into the same construct if you think about it. It’s all understanding human behavior. I spent my tween years in the public library obsessed by folklore and oddities of history and belief. I’d seen a vampire movie & got obsessed. Possibly an early manifestation of what would be revealed as ocd when I was an adult. I rented the movie (in the days of vhs stores) so many times the owner gave me a copy for my 11th birthday. My mom went all out and made me a garlic necklace, hand carved a table leg into a wooden stake with crosses burnt into it & a topped it off with a stolen vial of holy water. Needless to say she was encouraging of all my interests & she had her own esoteric library for me to explore. She was Wiccan (my dad was Catholic). I was very interested in the paranormal. I had a phase of obsession over revelations. I even worked for the international society for cryptozoology as a teenager. I had a good foundation of knowledge but it wasn’t until college that I started honing critical thinking skills. High school was a nightmare but I easily excelled in academics in college. I debated between psych & anthropology, became an archaeologist (focusing on indigenous Peoples of the Pacific Northwest & a 19th center Japanese village north of Seattle) then developed spinal problems and went back to school for history. My academic focus was medieval Europe. I wrote about the French werewolf panic , women in early Christianity & the influence of John Dee. I minored in NELC {ancient near eastern civilization} studying Sumerian, Babylonian, & Egyptian history & theology as well as the development of Abrahamic religion. I also had a second minor, a major had I done the language requirement, in Scandinavian studies studying Viking burial practices. I just realized this is long & is half my life story. I’ll leave it at this: I’m thrilled to find this channel & annoyed it took so long. Subscribing with the bell on 😀

[@justkiddin84]

Welcome, fellow seeker!

[@Cross-Carrier]

Perfect for a Friday night. I've just started my two week Christmas holiday. Have a magi Christmas everyone. Go sing it on the mountain.

[@thespiritualnavigatrix]

I was just searching Esoterica to see if you had done a deep dive on the Magi as I was thinking ahead to Epiphany. (I'm sitting here with my coffee and Eric Vanden Eykel's book in my lap). How lovely to find this in my feed! ❤

[@screetchycello]

Thanks for all the work you do making these! May the next year be great.

[@Herodotus77]

"Messiah...the game where everyone loses." Classic Dr. ledge commentary.

[@heathermcbade9209]

"As a Jew, it's like studying roleplaying manuals for games I don't ever want to play." This is why you are my favorite source of esoteric study. Your sense of humor and neutral analytical study of all sources without bias are a gem. Thank you for this!

[@rhov-anion]

I was raised as a Jehovah's Witness, and one "hot take" they had was that the Star of Bethlehem was none other than Satan. After all, he was the Morningstar, and the star did not lead the Magi to Jesus first, but to Herod, a man who would want Jesus to be killed. Therefore, JWs interpreted the star as malevolent, a demonic force wanting harm to come to Jesus. Sheltered as I was, I grew up assuming everyone thought this and did not understand why the "satanic" star would be featured so much in art and music. JWs don't celebrate Christmas (they believe Jesus was born around September and birthdays are pagan) so as a kid, I truly didn't understand a lot of the symbols I saw around town. I wrote many school essays on what the symbols of holly, reindeer, mistletoe, etc. might mean (days before the internet, so this was library research) as well as the literary change from Magi to Three Kings, all from an academic and historical perspective. Thankfully, my family wasn't living in the South at that time, so none of my liberal-minded teachers took these essays as an "attack on Christmas." (My Arkansas cousins got punished for doing the same thing.) Instead, my teachers saw it as this little kid questioning holiday traditions from an outsider's perspective. It was the start of my journey questioning and researching many cultural beliefs, mythologies, legends, and traditions. Always question, "Why do people believe this?" However, while my teachers enjoyed my deep dives, my habit of always questioning "why" got me in trouble with the JW elders, who publicly scolded me for daring to question doctrine. I don't want to be in any religion that punishes a curious mind.

[@J_Z913]

An amazing episode! The magi were my favorite part of the Christmas story when I was a kid. That's probably because they were portrayed in bright colors though! 😂 Thank you for all your work this year on the channel! I can't wait to see what you have planned for 2024!

[@TheEsotericaChannel]

Yeah they definitely have the best costumes!

[@_John_P]

@@TheEsotericaChannel Interesting how they're depicted wearing Phrygian hats and then suddenly they're kings with crowns and an army.

[@Protogonas]

Magic as always Dr. Sledge, Christmas came early with this gift of a video!

[@zackf3688]

Thanks for making the Shabbat before Christmas especially sweet.

[@Saint_nobody]

Your dry humor at the end, man that got me chuckling. Merry Christmas and happy chanukah.

[@matthewhorrigan5848]

I have a vivid memory of being Balthazar in a nativity play at my Roman Catholic parish when I was seven or eight. It's great to learn the historical truth behind those stories.

[@wangtoriojackson4315]

I heard the names "Melchior, Gaspar, and Belthasar" for the first time from playing Chrono Trigger, years before I learned they were the names of the three magi in the birth of Jesus myth, being raised in an Atheist household. To this day I still associate them prominently with CT whenever I read or hear anything about them. I have a lot of great memories of that game. It was perhaps the single most formative piece of media in my tastes for not only videogames, but fantasy fiction in all forms, as well as mythology and allegory.

[@splorn]

First time I’ve seen one of your videos. Like a breath of fresh air. (And using Mr.T as the image for gold made me more than a little happy on this ‘Christmas Day’ in Japan.)

[@rook9714]

On the subject of fanfiction, the star (here identified as the morning star, Venus, by its name as a Germanic pagan mythological figure) in the Old English Poem Crist I was the very first inspiration for Tolkien's legendarium - "Ēala ēarendel, engla beorhtast, ofer middangeard monnum sended" (Hail Earendel, brightest of angels, sent over Middle-Earth to men), giving us both the name Middle-Earth and the character of Eärendil the Mariner, who sails with a silmaril upon his brow, and whose light is captured in a phial by Galadriel and given to the ringbearer (which he then uses in the pass of Cirith Ungol to ward off Shelob), echoing the theological connection to the star as a symbol of hope. Frodo's evocation of the phial with the words in elvish "Aiya Earendil Elenion Ancalima" ('Hail Earendil brightest of stars') even resemble the original old english lines.

[@rook9714]

"I felt a curious thrill, as if something had stirred in me, half wakened by sleep. There was something very remote and strange and beautiful behind those words, if I could grasp it, far beyond ancient English." - Tolkien, 1911, during his first undergraduate term at Oxford.

[@FoodNerds]

Wow. Very interesting and informative

[@xPr0DiiGyxLORDsh]

This page is a gem, truly. I mean modern day library of Alexandria type stuff. I get that it can be overwhelming but I feel blessed to have found your page. Some of the stuff is hard to remember or hold onto knowledge wise, a lot of it feels like a map being written of a world unseen while my eyes are fixated on a different world all the time. In the end thank you.

[@Duiker36]

You, uh, didn't watch his Library of Alexandria video, did you?

[@AccidentalNinja]

It is absolutely fascinating to learn all the potential literary & symbolic meanings behind the elements of these stories, & it makes the literalists seem all the more tragic for flattening them so.

[@rhondie4ever]

Thanks for all the fascinating videos about rtopics like this!

[@infinitumneo840]

I enjoyed your overview on these confluent topics. Thanks!

[@Cloudryder]

“JC Literal Superstar” 😂 Hoping some screenwriters are watching this stellar episode. Merry Xmas, Justin. 🤘🏻

[@lavender3084]

I gotta talk about the magi’s depiction in one of my favourite Doom Metal songs: Black Stone Wielder by Candlemass! Solid riffs and an interesting story, basically they’re wizards that passed on their magical gift to the baby Jesus, super interesting ♥️

[@justkiddin84]

Kinda Santa Claus via L Frank Baum

[@KathrynsWorldWildfireTracking]

That Mario coin! Oi, Dr, try to keep sound FX really low volume. Else, people can't put you on "sleep safe" playlists anymore. Your soothing voice is wonderful for that. 😊 (Plus your work on repeat for hours must help the algorithm!) TY doc for your work, as always.❤

[@theeccentrictripper3863]

This is too much Doc, we didn't get you anything yet here you are at the door with an hour-long video for our enjoyment! Can't wait for 2024, I don't know what will come next but I always know Esoterica will have something for me.

[@delphinidin]

As a literature PhD who wrote my dissertation on fanfiction.... I love your references to it here. Completely accurate. :)

[@hansomsam]

Thanks again for bringing a relentless scholarly rigour and depth that, along with your dry wit and clarity, opens up the fascinating depths of things I haven't thought of for many years, or at all.

[@TheRemarkableN]

I for one enjoy these long, deep dives into interesting topics. Keep on truckin’ Dr Sledge!

[@secretshaman189]

You have a very interesting and informative channel and I appreciate your delivery. Respectful, but questioning -- always good!

[@yvonnebruce6178]

Thank you. I will never stop learning.

[@JM-pe5su]

Excellent thanks. The seven nation army magi made me chuckle out loud because I immediately heard and pictured it

[@MTheoOA]

You're my fav channel. Mind blowing depth. And you're so charismatic and nice. Thanks so much for this treasure. I changed completely how i studied alchemy and made me value it a lot more, almost in an ethical way

[@Chilimancer]

This is very quickly becoming one of my favorite channels.

[@patricianelson9928]

What a fun thing to listen to on Christmas Eve! Thank you!

[@petegdula4749]

Dr Justin, I am an Episcopal Deacon who follows you for the insightful images you present. I've been in situations where I'm able to preach once a month. My preparation will always find me looking for viewpoints and commentaries outside of the normal Christian publications that are "recommended" reading. Your subjects have led me to some deep introspection that allow me to present other views and possibilities which add to the discussions held during the Coffee Hour that follows the Service. You've also contributed to some responses by our priest in his sermons the following week. This coming Sunday being so close to the Epiphany will allow me to use some of your imagery in a Homily focused on the star. The writings of Ignatius of Antioch with his heavy metal anthem will be sure to headline my own writing. I'll avoid using the hand symbol associated with metal music to avoid being accussed of spreading anti-Christian messages.😉 Thank you for awesome videos! Pax et Bonum!

[@TheEsotericaChannel]

I am delighted to hear that anything I create can also help to be spiritual food for the faithful - despite my own skepticism. The story of the Magi is very powerful and what analysis I bring to the table can be beneficial to the skeptical and faithful alike. Many thanks for your kind words!

[@Pallasathena-hv4kp]

Your dives never disappoint. Always interesting to hear the different perspectives from sources of which I was unaware. Thanks!

[@EscualoDP]

Love the way you wrapped it up at the end! Another job well done 👍🏼 Peace, Dr. Sledge!

[@jeremyhorne6992]

Yesss! I've been waiting for this one! Can't wait to listen when I get off work! You're awesome Doc! Keep up the great work 🤝

[@samuelsmith5828]

A another wonderful video. Thank you Dr.Sledge. Have a blessed holiday.

[@Warlanda]

thank you for a beautiful presentation about the magi; you are an honorable man, Dr. Sledge and I appreciated the opportunity to learn from you. a very Merry Christmas to you and yours and may you be blessed as you are a blessing to so many others.

[@bferrell1797]

That was a lot of information to unpack! Excellent. Happy holidays.

[@ADEpoch]

I'm not Jewish, an ex-Christian (now atheist) but your general philosophy hinted at in your closing remarks ring a loud bell with me. Shalom l'atah rabbi.

[@-handala-]

“Just to be clear, this frankincense is for Christmas AND your birthday.”

[@marcusdoolette1547]

Such a great talk. So interesting and entertaining. Much appreciated. Your sense of humour is really uplifting. Laughed a lot. Learned a lot. Many thanks. Merry Mishmash and a Happy Third Gear to you and your family. Enjoy the Solstice.🙂

[@E_915]

5 mins in, I already know this is gonna be a certified hood classic

[@cheri238]

Thank you, Justin, again for this amazing opportunity to hear the philosophy and religious writings with your wisdom and diversity, and leaving me with more knowledge to comtempate with reflection. 🙏❤️🌎🌿🕊🎶🎵

[@thejamesQF]

I’m loving this, and I’m a big fan of your channel Dr.Sledge. I’d like to humbly make a request, could you do an episode on Simon Magus? This episode reminded me of him since he’s quite a significant Magi and figure in the gnostic tradition. I’m sure your analysis of him would be great. Thanks!

[@SancYung-in4ch]

Nothing less than 3 (Mario) Super Stars for you sir. Dearly appreciate you and your work. Sending a sincere 'Love ya man!' all the way for the South Bronx... P.S.: the Mario coin sound nearly killed me with laughter. So thanks for that too ☺️

[@yateleyhypnotherapy2111]

Thank you. Your videos are always so wonderful to watch. Happy holidays and may next year be your best.

[@DAClarkism]

Thank you Dr. Sledge for the wonderful early Christmas present! I hope you've had a good Hanukkah, and please have a safe and peaceful Christmas as well! Peace and blessings upon you and your house! I thoroughly enjoyed your commentary on the Magi and the various ancient sources surrounding them. I also found the various tie-ins to astrology enlightening. I had read that the Greeks had some issues with Zoroastrians, and I think what you've said about astrology might have been part of the reason. You are a fascinating individual my friend, and you remind me of a friend of mine, so i do indeed enjoy your content, please keep it coming brother!

[@laurenganim9092]

Such an amazing lecture! Thank you for sharing your expertise, something I always wanted to learn.

[@robertwalker-smith2739]

Excellent video! Another thorough and informative analysis. You combine scholarship and enthusiasm with great skill.

[@DarthBop]

Very interesting. Merry Christmas to you, sir!

[@maezzologymedia14]

One of my favorite yt channels! Thank you Justin and have a great holiday, from Denmark

[@DubProof]

Thank you Dr. Justin. Happy Holidays!

[@skinheadoconnor8721]

Another banger, Dr Sledge. Thanks as always. Can't wait for next year when we learn that the Little Drummer Boy was a proto-sufi inventing dhikr.

[@MichaelYoder1961]

Your deep dives are always fascinating, Justin. I've seen a number of documentaries about the star and yeah, the astronomers are all over the map as to what it could have been - one suggesting the movement of planets in Aries (the sign of the Jews). And the gifts, gold frankincense and myrrh are such a foreshadowing (literary-wise) of his life, death and messiah-hood. Always great stuff! Happy Holidays and a prosperous New Year to you and your family.

[@jaredfarney675]

Maybe the Magi were an early Prog Metal band on tour in search of a singer. I really enjoyed this episode, but it's Festivus for the rest of us.

[@JamesHazlerig]

Great video! I love your work. I am in awe of the breadth and depth of your knowledge.

[@hebamadi265]

Thank you for the great work and fantastic content, very informative and important

[@gunkwretch3697]

In the "Revelation of the Magi" text, they go around following a comet, getting people high on manna from heaven, having visions all over the place, its a trip!

[@gregstephens7990]

I love your work, and your right the episode on religion for breakfast about Zoroastrianism was very good, you both will be part of history next. happy holidays and longer days to come.

[@themythdoctor]

Thanks for all the amazing content Dr. Sledge! It will be useful in my Tolkien dissertation focusing on Gandalf and enigmatic wizard figures in myth & pop culture at Pacifica Graduate Institute. I watch so many of your videos and love them!

[@artkoenig9434]

Delightfully eloquent. I have been able to learn from your work here. Thank you!

[@theslightlychippedmoon]

May we all find our shining star. Thank you Dr Sledge

[@OrinSorinson]

One of my favorite apocryphal writings regarding the magi, a true antique: "-Your robes, give them to me. -I come bearing many gifts, but I assure you my robes are not among them. -What are you, some kind of wiseguy? -Well, actually, yes."

[@ThePdinvill]

Did not expect a mad TV sketch to be in the comments

[@zeenatbaer138]

Such a great episode, many thanks ... Peace and good will to all ❤

[@HeavenlyEchoVirus]

I was always assigned “Magi” or “stable horse” in Christmas pageants.

[@ant1010]

Love your knowledge and delivery. Seasons greetings

[@Darisiabgal7573]

I don't think Mr T intended his picture to be used in this story😂

[@Ner0mancer]

Wow, awesome essay as always! God bless you and this channel

[@lisabeth61lk]

As usual a wonderful and informative show. Thank you Justin

[@mikeflannery7219]

Thanks! Merry Xmas!

[@TheMysticPete]

Another great one. I love your humorous quips!

[@PaNNgz]

@15:52 Well done all around. So so cool. Fascinating, it didn't feel like an hour on this side of the monitor either.

[@Eddie9th]

I really enjoy the way you describe all the information on your channel 🙏

[@badbenito]

Happy New Year, Justin!!

[@MsJocelynC]

Thoroughly enjoyed this, thank you 🖤