Religion and science meet at the Star of Bethlehem

The three wise men visiting Jesus in the stable with gold, frankincense and myrrh is one of the most beloved stories in the birth of Jesus narrative but did it really happen?

Assistant professor of physics Aaron Adair, who authored the book “The Star of Bethlehem: A Skeptical View,” plans to explore the story in a special lecture at the Rogers Center for the Arts Dec. 10 at 6:30 p.m.

Adair spent over a decade researching the question.

He takes an academic approach to the genesis of the story told in the Gospel of Matthew.

“It’s a great example of how science tries to explain religion and religion tries to effect science,” Adair said.

There have been various attempts from different angles to explain the Star of Bethlehem story, Adair said.

“Are we trying to explain it with science or are we trying to explain it with fiction,” he asked.

Adair plans to argue it would have to be one heck of a supernatural event for the star story to be true.

The story of the three wise men is a typical storyline for legendary figures during the first century, Adair said. Other guiding star stories have included Aeneas escaping the destruction of Troy using a star as a guide.

“It’s a great combination of science, religion and history,” Adair said.

The Star of Bethlehem story serves a religious purpose in connecting the Old and New testaments by fulfilling a prophecy in the Book of Numbers from the Old Testament.

The prophecy foretold a divine heir and was used by Jewish prophets, some of whom changed their names to Son of the Star to claim divinity, Adair said. The interpretation of the story as a literary device doesn’t take away from the Bible unless the reader believes it should be taken literally, he said.

“For me, I find it far more interesting knowing (Matthew) is telling a story rather than tall tales,” Adair said.

 

SHARE THIS ARTICLE

Related News

Dan Vlahos and Marc Gonzalez

Merrimack Graphic Design Assistant Professor, Students, and Alumni Support Newly Launched Arts Festival in Boston

Merrimack Assistant Professor Dan Vlahos worked with students, alumni and the community on the Mission Hill Arts Festival.
Jonathan Latiano

VPA Faculty Spotlight: Associate Professor Jonathan Latiano, MFA

To kick off the 2023 school year, the Visual and Performing Arts Department begins their Faculty and Staff monthly spotlight with Associate Professor Jonathan Latiano, MFA, Director of the Art and Art History Program and Chair of the McCoy Gallery Working Group.
Photo of Jasmine Gonzalez ’23.

Student Group President Helps Keep Hispanic, Latin American Culture Alive on Merrimack Campus

Jasmine Gonzalez, president of the Association of Latinos Moving Ahead, says she aims to host at least one event each week for students.
Academics
Admission
Student Life
About