The answer is: 2 years and under

Matt 2:16 - Jesus could well have been nearly two years old by the time the wise men visited him.

In the New Testament, we often come across heart-wrenching stories that highlight the extraordinary circumstances surrounding Jesus' birth—such as the tragic decree by King Herod. Think about it: the urgency and fear in Herod’s heart led him to order the massacre of every child two years and under in Bethlehem. This grim event illustrates the extreme lengths to which those in power can go to maintain control, positioning Jesus' arrival as not just a joyous occasion but also one that came with fear and peril.

Interestingly, the wise men's visit, which triggered Herod's deadly reaction, paints a picture of divine timing. Some believe that the Magi (wise men) did not arrive until Jesus was already close to two years old. They had traveled quite a distance from the East, driven by their study of celestial signals. It’s a poignant reminder that God's guidance often comes through the natural world, which is a cornerstone of many spiritual perspectives.

While this story evokes sorrow, it also sparks hope. These children who were lost are remembered daily in monastic prayers. Furthermore, their echo can be felt as a focal point in human resilience; they exemplified the innocence lost amid dark times. This narrative draws connections to other Biblical tales, like the suffering of innocent lives in Egypt during the Exodus. Time and again, the divine message emerges—there is hope beyond the darkness.