Since the three astrologers had agreed
Jupiter hovered in Aries, they weren’t
surprised by the morning star. They would heed
its sign, detour their camels and wind-burnt
faces south to Petra, buy frankincense—
pale pellets like unwashed crystal—and myrrh
to honor the newborn king. It made sense
to Caspar and Melchior: They’d defer
to guides when reaching Bethlehem, locate
the babe, then report news back to Herod.
Balthazar growled his discontent. What fate
awaits a child who threatens fearful gods?
he whispered. Their dream echoed his omen.
So they went, worshipped, then fled through Ammon.
Roger Armbrust
December 22, 2008
