What of the star itself? Many attempts have been
made by scholars to give some sort of scientific explanation for the Star of
Bethlehem. Indeed, there is substantial historic and scientific evidence of an
unusual celestial event at the approximate time of the birth of Christ, yet
even this would not explain the behavior of the star as described by the Holy
Scriptures. Of course, to the Church there is a more mystical approach.
The Holy Fathers tell us that this star can be
compared to the miraculous pillar of fire, which stood in the camp by night
during Israel’s exodus, or the light from heaven, which overwhelmed Saul on his
way to Damascus. St. John Chrysostom, in his homily on the second chapter of
Matthew, says God called the wise men by the things that are familiar to them,
for being astrologers they were naturally astonished at such a large star. He
says that God, for the salvation of those in error, allowed Himself to be
served by astrologers, normally used to serve the devil, so that He might
gently draw the Magi away from their customs and lead them toward a higher
wisdom.
St. Maximos the Confessor says that when the
intellect is illumined by the infinite Light of God it becomes insensible to
everything made by Him, just as the eye becomes insensitive to the stars when
the sun rises. The Magi did not just drop off their gifts and leave, for they
left from the presence of Christ as men forever changed by their experience.
Their superior intellect and knowledge was confounded by the presence of a
little child born under the humblest circumstances.
In keeping this great Feast of the Nativity of
our Lord, we must receive this Light with joy, not putting it away at the end
of the season, but rather let your light so shine before men, that they may see
your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven. (Matthew 5:16).
Source: http://www.johnsanidopoulos.com/2009/12/magi-and-star-orthodox-understanding.html
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