balthasar
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Proper noun * One of the Magi: In the Christian tradition, Balthasar is the name traditionally given to one of the three wise men (Magi or Kings) who, according to the New Testament, traveled from the East to pay homage to the infant Jesus Christ, bringing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
Usage
- Balthasar is used exclusively as a proper noun to refer to this specific biblical figure. It is a name and is always capitalized.
- The name is most commonly used in religious, artistic, and historical contexts related to the Nativity story.
Examples
- The three Magi are often named as Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar.
- In many paintings of the Adoration of the Magi, Balthasar is frequently depicted bearing the gift of myrrh.
- The story of Balthasar and the other wise men is a central part of the Christmas narrative.
Advanced Usage
- Symbolic Representation: In later Western tradition, Balthasar is often portrayed as a king of African descent, symbolizing the global reach of Christ's birth. This representation is common in art from the European Middle Ages onward.
Variants and Related Words
- Balthazar: A common variant spelling of the name.
- Magi: The plural term for the group of wise men/kings, of which Balthasar is one.
- The Three Kings / The Three Wise Men: Common terms for the group.
Synonyms
- (One of the) Magi
- (One of the) Three Kings
- (One of the) Three Wise Men
Related Phrases and Cultural References
- The Adoration of the Magi: A common title for artistic depictions (paintings, sculptures) of the three kings, including Balthasar, visiting the infant Jesus.
- The Feast of the Epiphany: A Christian feast day on January 6th celebrating the visit of the Magi, where the figure of Balthasar is commemorated.
Noun
- (New Testament) one of the three sages from the east who came bearing gifts for the infant Jesus