What was the Star of Bethlehem?
There is no definitive consensus on the explanation for the "Star of Bethlehem," but several theories have been proposed by astronomers and scholars:
Planetary conjunction: A popular theory suggests it was a conjunction of planets, particularly Jupiter and Saturn. In 7 BCE, Jupiter and Saturn were within three degrees of each other for eight months, passing within one degree three times. Some argue it could have been a triple conjunction involving Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn in 6 BCE.
Comet: Colin Nicholl hypothesizes it was an exceptionally bright, long-period comet, though not recorded in other historical documents. Chinese records note possible comet sightings in 5 BCE and 4 BCE.
Nova or supernova: Records from Far Eastern astronomers indicate a new star in the constellation Aquila in 4 BCE, which some consider a potential candidate.
Jupiter's stationary point: Some suggest it could have been Jupiter's apparent stationary point, where it seems to pause in its celestial motion.
Symbolic interpretation: Some scholars argue against purely naturalistic explanations, suggesting the star had supernatural qualities based on its description in the Gospel of Matthew.
Latter-day Saints believe that the Star of Bethlehem was an actual astronomical event visible the world over. In the Book of Mormon, a religious text containing the writings of ancient prophets, Samuel the Lamanite prophesies that a new star will appear as a sign that Jesus has been born, and Nephi later writes to record the fulfillment of his prediction.
Perhaps the most memorable cinematic depiction of the Star of Bethlehem takes place in the blockbuster 1959 production of Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ, as seen here in the film’s opening scene. You may want to click through and watch this in YouTube, as the star easier to see on a larger screen.
