Three Kings' Day
Día de los Reyes Magos
They had me at “magos.”
(“Mago” in Spanish means magician, wizard, or sorcerer.)
They were described as “"wise men from the East." The term “Magi” comes from the Old Persian and refers to a learned priestly class, possibly Zoroastrian. As wise men, priests, and astrologers, they were attuned to the heavens, spotted the Star of Bethlehem and interpreted the prophesy of a new king. And they come from cultures that honor the tradition of not showing up empty-handed when visiting.
Melchor, the oldest, wore a white beard and brought the gift of gold. Gaspar was younger, hence the dark beard, and brought frankincense. Baltasar was a black man and brought the gift of myrrh.
January 6th is celebrated in Spanish-speaking cultures. We get to enjoy double gifts, once at Christmas and again on Three Kings’ Day. I used to write a letter to them addressed “Queridos Melchor, Gaspar y Baltasar,” assuring them that I had behaved well throughout the year and requesting the desired gifts.
So, it’s not too late for you. Write your note to the Magi and ask that your deepest desires be fulfilled.
On this day, we humbly ask that you work your magic and bring us world peace, an awakening to universal love, and an end to world hunger.