The birth of Jesus Christ was announced by two remarkable events: the
coming of wise men from the East, and the appearance of angels to some
shepherds at Bethlehem.
The wise men were probably astronomers; and in watching the stars they
had seen one that had led them to leave their own country, and take a
long journey to Jerusalem. Most likely they rode on camels, and their
journey was a tedious one. But at last they reached Jerusalem, where
they inquired saying, "Where is He that is born King of the Jews? for
we have seen His star in the East and are come to worship Him."
Tidings of these inquiries were brought to King Herod, and when he
heard them he was much troubled. He was a wicked king; and feared that
if another king had been born, he would grow up and take the crown
away. Herod was also cruel and treacherous, and while pretending to
act rightly, often did many evil things. And now he intended to
destroy the infant King, who might one day take his sceptre away.
So he first sent for the learned men of the Jews, the chief priests
and scribes, and demanded of them where Christ should be born; and
when they had replied that it was to be in Bethlehem, he secretly
called the wise men before him, and inquired of them what time the
star appeared. After getting the information he needed, he dismissed
the wise men, bidding them to go to Bethlehem "and search diligently
for the young child; and when ye have found Him," said Herod, "bring
me word again, that I may come and worship Him also.
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