Epiphany: The Magi’s Recognition of Jesus as One of Multiple Saoshyants – A Zoroastrian Perspective

Epiphany (January 6) in Christianity commemorates the visit of the Three Magi to the newborn Jesus Christ, traditionally signifying the first manifestation of Jesus to the Gentiles. From a Zoroastrian viewpoint, these Magi were priests of ancient Persia who recognized Jesus as a Saoshyant-like figure—a prophesied savior or benefactor in Zoroastrian tradition. This perspective does not claim Jesus was the final Saoshyant but rather one among potential savior figures through the ages.

In this article, we explore:

1. The origin of Epiphany and its meaning.
2. Who the Magi were in Zoroastrian lore.
3. The Zoroastrian concept of Saoshyant and its multiplicity.
4. Points of convergence between Zoroastrianism and Christianity.
5. Ways Zoroastrians might honor January 6 as a day of reflection.

Our goal is to provide an academically enriched and spiritually meaningful perspective for eFireTemple.com, bridging ancient wisdom with modern insight.

1. The Word “Epiphany”: Meaning and Etymology

• Epiphany derives from the Greek term “Epiphaneia” (ἐπιφάνεια), meaning “manifestation” or “appearance.”
• It combines “epi-” (upon/towards) and “phanein” (to show/appear), originally referring to deities revealing themselves to mortals in ancient Greek culture.
• In Christian usage, Epiphany specifically marks the manifestation of Jesus to the Magi, symbolizing divine revelation beyond Judea.

Zoroastrian Parallel: Khvarenah (Divine Glory)

In Zoroastrianism, Khvarenah represents a radiant divine glory bestowed upon chosen individuals. It mirrors the notion of an epiphany wherein a spiritual figure (or event) radiates a higher, often revelatory, insight or status.

2. The Magi: Zoroastrian Priests and Keepers of Cosmic Order

2.1 Historical and Linguistic Roots

• The term Magi (Greek “Magoi”; Old Persian “Maguš”) refers to a priestly caste within Zoroastrianism, noted for its specialized knowledge in astronomy, astrology, theology, and ritual practice.
• They served under the Achaemenid, Parthian, and Sassanian empires, performing religious rites and acting as spiritual advisors to kings.

2.2 Their Journey to Bethlehem

• According to Matthew 2:1–12, the Magi followed a star (sometimes called the Star of Bethlehem) to honor the newborn Jesus with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
• Within a Zoroastrian context, the Magi’s star-watching aligns with their practice of interpreting celestial omens to identify divinely significant events.

Reference Note: For the biblical account, see The Gospel of Matthew, Chapter 2; for details on Magi in Persian sources, see Herodotus (Histories, Book I, 101) and Boyce (1979).

3. The Zoroastrian Concept of Saoshyant

3.1 Definition and Role

• The Saoshyant (Avestan: “one who brings benefit”) is a prophesied figure in Zoroastrianism who will restore cosmic order (Asha), defeat evil, and usher in an era of renewal.
• Key Zoroastrian texts such as the Avesta (particularly in the Yasna and the Younger Avesta) mention Saoshyants as leaders of moral and spiritual rejuvenation.

3.2 Multiple Saoshyants

• Contrary to a singular savior concept, Zoroastrian theology allows for several Saoshyants to arise throughout time, each aiding humanity in times of moral crisis.
• The final Saoshyant, often identified as Astvat-ereta, will appear at the end of cosmic time to bring about the ultimate defeat of Angra Mainyu (the destructive spirit).

Reference Note: For a detailed account of the Saoshyant, see Mary Boyce’s Zoroastrians: Their Religious Beliefs and Practices (1979, Chapters 6–7) and J. Darmesteter’s translations of the Avesta (Sacred Books of the East, Vol. 4 & 23).

4. The Magi’s Recognition of Jesus as One of the Saoshyants

4.1 Cultural and Religious Intersection

• The Magi’s visit underscores a cross-cultural interaction: Persian Zoroastrian priests acknowledging a newborn child in Judea.
• While Christian tradition sees the Magi recognizing Jesus as Messiah, a Zoroastrian reading infers they acknowledged Jesus as a Saoshyant-like figure—one destined to bring moral and spiritual light to his community.

4.2 Similarities Between Jesus and Zoroastrian Saoshyants

1. Ethical and Moral Emphasis:
   • Jesus advocated love, compassion, and moral integrity (Matthew 5–7, The Sermon on the Mount).
   • Zoroastrian Saoshyants emphasize Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds (Yasna 30:2–3).
2. Victory Over Darkness:
   • Jesus taught the ultimate triumph of good over evil (John 1:5, “Light shines in the darkness”).
   • Zoroastrian tradition holds that Saoshyants combat Druj (falsehood) and Angra Mainyu.
3. Renewal:
   • Christian texts speak of a new covenant (Luke 22:20).
   • Zoroastrian eschatology anticipates a Frashokereti (final renewal of creation).

5. Observing January 6: A Zoroastrian-Inspired Approach

Although January 6 (Epiphany) is not a canonical Zoroastrian celebration, Zoroastrians and interfaith seekers can find meaning in honoring the Magi’s act of recognition:

1. Lighting a Fire or Candle
   • Symbolizing Ahura Mazda’s guiding light, much like the star guided the Magi.
2. Recitation of Yasna Prayers
   • Particularly those emphasizing Asha (truth), light, and wisdom—for instance, Yasna 41.
3. Acts of Service
   • Emulate the Magi’s offering of gifts by engaging in charitable actions aligned with Good Deeds.
4. Study and Reflection
   • Discuss or read excerpts from the Avesta and the New Testament to appreciate the spiritual intersections.
5. Shared Meal or Gathering
   • Host a communal meal to celebrate unity and shared spiritual heritage.

6. Bridging Traditions: Key Parallelisms

Reference Note: See A. Shapur Shahbazi’s On the Xwadāy-Nāmag (1991) for discussions on Persian royal ideology and priestly interpretations. Also, Martin Haug’s Essays on the Sacred Language, Writings, and Religion of the Parsis (1862) offers classic insight into Zoroastrian eschatology.

Epiphany: A universal celebration

Epiphany need not remain solely a Christian observance. When viewed through a Zoroastrian lens, it becomes a powerful testimony to humanity’s universal quest for truth, goodness, and divine wisdom. The Magi—Zoroastrian priests—recognized Jesus as a pivotal spiritual figure, aligning his role with the Saoshyant archetype of guiding communities back to Asha.

By revisiting these ancient narratives with academic rigor and interfaith respect, we uncover a shared spiritual heritage that connects the wisdom of Zoroastrianism with the message of Christianity. January 6 can thus serve as a day of reflection, renewal, and gratitude, celebrating the light and truth that transcends religious boundaries.

References and Further Reading

1. Boyce, Mary.Zoroastrians: Their Religious Beliefs and Practices. Routledge, 1979.
   • A foundational study of Zoroastrian theology, history, and practice.
2. Darmesteter, James.Sacred Books of the East, Volumes 4 & 23: The Zend-Avesta. Translated by James Darmesteter, Oxford University Press, 1880–1897.
   • Classic translations of key Avesta texts, including Yasna prayers and references to Saoshyants.
3. Haug, Martin.Essays on the Sacred Language, Writings, and Religion of the Parsis. Trübner & Co., 1862.
   • One of the earliest Western academic examinations of Zoroastrianism, discussing doctrines of salvation and prophecy.
4. Shahbazi, A. Shapur. “On the Xwadāy-Nāmag.” Iranica Varia: Papers in Honor of Professor Ehsan Yarshater, edited by D. Amin and M. Kasheff, Columbia University, 1991, pp. 208–230.
   • Explores Persian imperial traditions, possibly shedding light on priestly roles and cosmic kingship.
5. Herodotus.The Histories, Book I. Translated by A. D. Godley, Harvard University Press, 1920.
   • Provides one of the earliest non-Persian references to the Magi and their societal function.
6. The Holy Bible.Matthew 2:1–12.
   • The primary Christian scriptural source describing the journey of the Magi to Bethlehem.