The Story of the Other Wise Man characters

Appears from the start

A learned and wealthy Magus of Persia who reads the heavens as announcing the birth of a great king. He sells his possessions and sets out with three precious stones meant as tribute, intending to join three fellow seekers on the journey west.

Appears from the start

Three Magi who share Artaban's reading of the celestial sign and arrange to meet him before crossing the desert. Their need to leave at the appointed time gives Artaban's first act of mercy an immediate cost.

First appears in chapter 2

A gravely ill stranger whom Artaban finds abandoned beside the road. Artaban stops to tend him and uses his knowledge of medicine, although the delay may make him miss his companions.

First appears in chapter 3

A mother in Bethlehem who shelters Artaban while soldiers search the town. When her child is threatened, Artaban uses one of his intended gifts to turn danger away from the household.

First appears in chapter 3

The young child protected when Artaban intervenes during Herod's violence in Bethlehem.

First appears in chapter 5

A young woman about to be sold into slavery because of her father's debts. Artaban spends his final jewel to secure her freedom even though he believes he has at last come close to the king he has sought for decades.

Also known as The King

First appears in chapter 5

The teacher from Nazareth whom Artaban recognizes as the king foretold by the star. Artaban reaches Jerusalem on the day of the crucifixion after spending a lifetime seeking him and helping suffering people along the way.