If we trace back the development of today’s representation of the birth of Jesus, the Christmas crèche, we start with the Holy Family—Jesus, Mary, and Joseph—plus some barnyard animals. An early addition was the shepherds, who had been visited by angels, and their sheep, which is consistent with the story in the Gospel of Luke. When St. Francis of Assisi staged the first Nativity scene in 1223, he used live animals and invited the villagers to take part.

A question arises with the addition of the Magi, or three “Wise Men.” In the Gospel of Matthew, the Magi visit the Holy Family in a house, and many scholars believe this may have been some time after Jesus’ birth, possibly up to two years later, since Herod later ordered the killing of boys two years old and under. So, strictly speaking, the Magi may not belong at the manger at all.

The Magi themselves remain somewhat mysterious. Matthew calls them simply “wise men from the East,” and many historians associate them with the priestly class of ancient Persia, who were known for their learning and their study of the stars. Matthew doesn’t say how many there were; the tradition of three comes from their three gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. According to Matthew, the Magi followed a star to Judea and stopped first in Jerusalem to ask where the newborn “King of the Jews” could be found.

Their question troubled King Herod, the Rome-backed ruler of Judea. After consulting his advisers about where the Messiah was to be born, Herod sent the Magi on to Bethlehem, asking them to report back so that he too could “worship” the child—though his real intent was to do away with him. The Magi found Jesus, presented their gifts, and, warned in a dream, returned home by another route without reporting to Herod.

So it is that our crèche grew to include the three Kings and, usually, at least one camel. Whether you place the Magi at the manger or keep them traveling across the room until Epiphany on January 6, they have become a cherished part of the Nativity scene. Learn more in the historical origins of outdoor Nativity scenes, or browse our Nativity sets.