Today, if a new star appeared in the night's sky, who would pay any attention? Only the astronomers would take notice as they compare the sky with their star charts. Yet the appearance of this new star was generally known. In order for this new star to be noticeable to everyone, there had to be something distinctive about it. Samuel prophesied that it would be such an one as ye never have beheld (Hel 14:5). Certainly, the wise men from the east found it to be impressive, for it was to them both a guiding light and an amazing sign, and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy (Matt 2:9-10).