Magi
/ˈmædʒ.aɪ/noun
The term for the ancient Persian priests, scholars, and magicians known for their wisdom and mystical practices.
Did you know?The Magi were believed to possess the ability to interpret dreams and foresee the future, linking them to astrology and the occult arts.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*magh-
“to be able, to have power”
Old Persian
Old Persian
maguš
“a priest or magician, connected to Zoroastrianism”
Avestan
Avestan
magu
“one who possesses wisdom or magical abilities”
Greek
Greek
μάγοι (magoi)
“wise men or sorcerers, often linked to astrology”
Latin
Latin
Magi
“the title for the Zoroastrian priests or wise men from the East”
Middle English
Middle English
Magi
“the term used for the wise men who visited Jesus, still retaining an air of mystery and magic”
Modern English
English
Magi
“the term for ancient Persian magicians and astrologers, now synonymous with wisdom and mysticism.”