I want to dig this old thread back up because it should be noticed that Matthew's putting a Judaic "prophecy" in the mouths of pagan high priests of Persia's official state religion, Magism.

Since when does Judaism or Christianity give such credence to such a pagan religion as this?

In Christianity's case, it's been ever since nativity scenes include these "wise men", and I never miss a chance every Christmas to make the observation that Christians celebrate the equation of Magism and wisdom every Christmastide.