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True or false: the wise men were present for Jesus's birth

User Syldman
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Final answer:

The wise men, or magi, were not present at Jesus's birth; they visited some time after. This is recounted in the Bible and depicted in traditional Nativity scenes. One of the magi is often portrayed as Balthazar, a Black king from Africa.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement about the wise men, also known as magi, being present for Jesus's birth is false. According to the biblical account, the magi visited Jesus some time after His birth, not at the actual moment of birth. This is often depicted in Nativity scenes where the three magi bring gifts to the infant Jesus, a tradition that has been represented in art and sculptures throughout history, including the Middle Ages. One of the kings is often depicted as a Black king from Africa named Balthazar.

It is common to see these figures in Nativity scenes alongside other elements such as shepherds and angels, as seen in many historical religious artworks that show different aspects of the birth and early life of Jesus. However, the magi's visit is separate and followed the birth, indicating they were not present at the manger at the time Jesus was born.

User Malisha
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