The answer is: They saw a star in the East

Matt 2:2 - Much has been written about the star, but all we can really say for sure is there was a luminous object which appeared for a special purpose.

The story of the wise men being guided by a star is captivating and has stoked the imagination of many for centuries. These visitors, often called Magi, are believed to have come from the East—possibly Persia or Babylonia, an area well-known for studying astrology and astronomy. A fact that many find interesting is that references to such celestial phenomena weren't unheard of in that era. In fact, adornments of astrology are even mentioned in the writings of various ancient cultures!

In mathematics and astronomy, the ancients employed methods that often connected earthly events to the cosmos. For instance, they believed that certain stars or planetary alignments could herald significant events, like the birth of a king or a shift in leadership. People who observed the night sky usually held that the universe was a testament to divine happenings.

However, this celestial guide was not merely a hint; it acted as an illuminating map, leading these wise travelers across challenging terrain to find the newborn Jesus. It emphasizes the intriguing idea that God's plan was marked not only by earthly signs—like the joy in Bethlehem but also by heavenly indicators. It takes the very simplest among us to look up and wonder if there might be a greater purpose at play.

So, while the precise identity of this star remains a mystery, its significance is clear: it symbolizes guidance, the search for truth, and the celebration of a unique birth in the grand story of humanity.