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.

The horrifying story of King Herod's decree to slay all male children aged two and under really brings the tension of that time into sharp focus. But just imagine a little baby, under the gentle serious gaze of His parents, caught in such a chaotic and dangerous moment.

Now, speaking of ages, it’s intriguing to consider the significance of the number “two.” In scripture, pairs often depict confirmation or establishment of something important, almost like echoing the principles stated in Deuteronomy 19:15—"By the mouth of two or three witnesses the matter shall be established.” This story serves as a kind of stark reminder that challenges often come early in life, challenging the very essence of what it means to grow up in a world often tinged with fear.

Interestingly, this sad narrative also foreshadows another theme seen throughout biblical history: men of power often feel threatened by greatness that’s coming from unexpected places. Think of Moses escaping Pharaoh’s orders or the plight of the Israelites—they were frequently the targets of powerful regimes.

It's also compelling that the original audience of Matthew's Gospel could likely connect this with other narratives about salvation emerging from peril. With the wise men bringing gifts to the expected king, recognizing Jesus’ significance creates this beautiful scruffy paradox, that even amidst the sorrow of the massacre, hope carries forward in yet another one- or two-year-old who challenges earthly kings.