When I think of the magic kingdom, it usually has more to do with mice than the Magi. However, as I read Matt. 2 in Ruden's translation, the first few verses put magic in focus, and not in an amusement park sense. She describes the Magi as "diviners from where the sun rises" which sounds way more intriguing and magical than most English versions, which say something like "wise men from the east". Calling them diviners makes the magical part of what they do vary apparent.
The interaction between Herod and the diviners might be another discouraging example of various parties trying to manipulate each other for an advantage, but the Topic of their conversation brings hope. Matthew does some nice wordplay, it's almost like the diviners are saying, "We have come from the rising of the sun to see the rising of the star." To me, it seems like they're saying that what they are seeking is far more important than even the sun, which, of course, is true.
The translation also makes it clear how bad Herod really was - sly, manipulative, malevolent. He hears about the rising star and sees a threat rather than something to pursue. His reaction is to use the honest seekers for his dishonest ends. Not everyone who says they are looking for Jesus is doing so for good reasons, or from pure motives. Sometimes people try to turn Jesus into a tool for political or personal gain. The more things change...
I'm struck by the fact that, as I read this with new eyes, how much conflict and suffering there is around Jesus' birth. It's really not a peaceful manger scene--it's more like a cynical political thriller and there is violence and betrayal everywhere. The Magi give me hope--they were honest seekers. If they were flattered by Herod's invitations, or proud of their brush with power, they didn't let it distract them from their quest. I'm struck by their genuineness--who knows what they expected, but they rejoiced in and worshiped what they found.
I agree that chapter 2 is pretty dark. I keep thinking that it emphasises the Light coming through Jesus and the darkness of the world around Him.
Once again I was taken by the First Nations names and wording.
Verse one reads: "It was during the days of the bad hearted Chief Looks Brave (Herod) that the Chosen One was born in the Village of Bread (Bethlehem) in the Land of Promise (Judea). After his birth, Seekers of Wisdom (Magi) travelling on a long journey from the East came to Village of Peace (Jerusalem).
In subsequent verses, there are references to Wrestles with Creator (Isreal). [I know that there was a lot of work that went into researching the meanings…
This chapter has always troubled me. I wonder why, if so much was communicated via dreams, God didn’t communicate to the Magi to avoid Herod, and thus save those babies…OT prophecy notwithstanding. Matthew, right from the beginning, is setting up a story that has more questions than answers - at least that has always seemed to me. It’ a book with sharp corners that poke and disturb.