The Magi saw the calculable astronomical event, understood its meaning within their knowledge framework, and successfully predicted its significance. We lost the astronomical data that would make this obvious, forcing later interpretation as miracle rather than rare natural phenomenon. Your hypothesis gains: Strong historical support from the text itself, once we understand what the Magi actually knew.

Jesus demonstrated that non-literal narrative can convey truth more effectively than bare factual reporting. The Anthropology of Light extends this recognition across biblical genres.

Grace as thermodynamic patience? Reality doesn't punish every misstep with immediate collapse. There's buffer, resilience, time to learn and correct. The sun doesn't instantly explode if one fusion reaction goes slightly wrong.