Balthazar (magus)

Gerard David - Adoration of the Kings - Google Art Project (cropped)4

Balthazar is traditionally regarded as one of the Biblical Magi who visited the infant Jesus after his birth, bearing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The Magi are often referred to as the "Three Wise Men" or "Three Kings" in Christian tradition.

Biblical Account

The story of the Magi is found in the Gospel of Matthew, specifically in Matthew 2:1-12. According to the narrative, the Magi came from the East to Jerusalem after seeing a star that they interpreted as signifying the birth of the "king of the Jews." They were directed to Bethlehem where they found Jesus and presented their gifts.

Names and Origins

The names of the Magi—Melchior, Caspar, and Balthazar—are not mentioned in the Bible but are found in later Christian tradition. Balthazar is often depicted as a king from Arabia or sometimes from Ethiopia, representing the continents of Africa or Asia.

Symbolism and Gifts

Each of the gifts brought by the Magi has symbolic meaning:

• Gold symbolizes kingship and Jesus' royal status.
• Frankincense represents deity and worship.
• Myrrh is associated with death and embalming, prefiguring Jesus' crucifixion and burial.

Cultural Depictions

Balthazar has been depicted in various forms of art, literature, and music throughout history. In medieval and Renaissance art, he is often shown as a young man with dark skin, reflecting his supposed origin from Africa or Arabia.

Feast Day

The visit of the Magi is celebrated in the Christian calendar on Epiphany, which falls on January 6. This day commemorates the revelation of Jesus to the Gentiles, represented by the Magi.

Relics and Veneration

The supposed relics of the Magi were brought to Cologne Cathedral in Germany in the 12th century, where they remain a site of pilgrimage.

See Also

• Epiphany (holiday)
• Gospel of Matthew
• Nativity of Jesus
• Three Kings Day