Pronunciation: [mˈad͡ʒənz] (IPA) 
Magians is a plural noun that refers to practitioners of Zoroastrianism, a religion founded in ancient Persia. The word is spelled as "mey-jee-uhnz" in IPA transcription, with stress on the first syllable. The "g" sound is pronounced as a soft "j" sound, similar to the "g" in "gem." The spelling of the word is derived from the Greek word "magos," meaning sorcerer or magician, which is also the root of the English word "magic."
Magians refers to a historical term that identifies a specific group of people involved in ancient religious practices. The term is derived from the Greek word magoi, which broadly denotes a category of eastern priests, astrologers, and sorcerers. Magians were recognized as religious practitioners or wise men who primarily followed the Zoroastrian tradition, which originated in ancient Persia (modern-day Iran).
Zoroastrianism is an ancient monotheistic religion founded by the prophet Zoroaster (also known as Zarathustra) around the 6th century BCE. The magians, as followers of this faith, played significant roles in Zoroastrian rituals and ceremonies. They were responsible for maintaining the sacred fire, interpreting astrological events, engaging in divination practices, and serving as intermediaries between the divine and human realms.
The magians were highly regarded for their knowledge of astrology, astronomy, and mystical sciences. They were believed to possess esoteric wisdom and mystical powers, which facilitated their ability to perform magical ceremonies and rituals. In addition to their religious duties, magians also participated in courtly affairs, offering their expertise to kings and rulers.
Over time, the term "magians" came to be associated with the broader concept of magicians or wizards in popular culture. However, it is essential to distinguish the original historical context of the term, which specifically refers to the Zoroastrian religious practitioners in ancient Persia.
The learned men and priests among the Persians who worshipped light or fire as the emblem of the invisible God, who cultivated a knowledge of astronomy and the secrets of nature, and to whom were attributed the wielding of mysterious powers, and the practice of divination; the followers of Zoroaster, who held two principles, one of good, and the other of evil.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The term "magians" is derived from the Greek word "magos" (plural: magoi). In ancient times, the Magi were a priestly caste in Persia who practiced Zoroastrianism, an ancient Persian religion. The Greeks encountered the term through interactions with Persian culture and incorporated it into their own language. Over time, the term "magi" came to represent not only the Persian priests but also those who practiced magic or were wise men and scholars. In English, "magians" is the plural form of "magian", which is used to refer to these individuals.
