how many Magi?

[StevenDunn]

I’m not sure how it is in the Eastern tradition, but in the West it always seems one of the Magi is African. Does anybody know why that is?

 

[redrosetea]

He came from Ethiopia I think, or Arabia…It has to do with Old Testament prophecy

The kings of Tharsis and the islands shall offer presents: the kings of the Arabians and of Sheba shall bring gifts. (Psalms 71, 10) The kings shall walk in the brightness of thy rising… They all shall come from Sheba, bringing gold and frankincense. (Isaiah 60, 3-6)

Let the great ones come forth from Egypt, let Ethiopia stretch out her arms to God. (Psalms 67, 32)

 

[Pani_Rose]

Though I have not read this thread someone that has sent these links to me for the purpose of posting them to the topic. Hope they will help!

**Mary’s “House” and Magi **
forums.catholic-questions.org/showthread.php?t=16196

Magi
forums.catholic-questions.org/showthread.php?t=93289

Visit of the Magi
byzcath.org/forums/ubbthreads.php/topics/131443/

Gaspar, Melchior, and Balthasar
forums.catholic-questions.org/showthread.php?t=122536

 

[Janet1983]

I think I read somewhere that the tradition in Eastern Catholic/Orthodox churches is that there were twelve rather than three magi.
True? Can anyone fill me in?

thanx.

The names might differ, but they should only have three too.
The Bible however does not state how many there were. We do however assume that there were three because there were three presents which are mentioned in Scripture.