MAGIANS

From Agepedia

MAGIANS (Magi) derive their name from mog or mag, which signifies priest in the Pehlvi language. (See Indian Lan guages.) They were the caste of priests with the Persians and Medians. They were in exclusive possession of scientific knowledge. As sacrifices and prayer could be offered to Ormuzd only through them; as Ormuzd revealed his will only to them, and they therefore could pry into futurity; in short, as they were considered mediators between the people and the Deity,they necessarily possessed great authority, which they abused. Zoroaster was their reformer. He divided them into learners, teachers and perfect teachers. (For the doctrine of Zoroaster, see the article.)