Epiphany (holiday)

Epiphany is a Christian holiday celebrated annually on January 6th. It commemorates two events recorded in the Bible: the visit of the Magi to the baby Jesus and his baptism by John the Baptist in the Jordan River. The term "Epiphany" comes from the Greek word epiphaneia, meaning "manifestation" or "appearance".

Origins and History

The Epiphany holiday has its roots in the Eastern Christian churches, where it originally focused on the baptism of Jesus. Over time, Western Christian churches began to celebrate the visit of the Magi in addition to, or instead of, the baptism. The holiday is also known as Three Kings' Day in some cultures, referring to the three Magi who visited Jesus.

Celebrations and Traditions

Epiphany is celebrated in various ways around the world, reflecting different cultural and national traditions. In many Western Christian churches, the holiday marks the end of the Christmas season and the beginning of Ordinary Time.

In some countries, such as Spain and Mexico, children receive gifts on Epiphany, similar to the tradition of gift-giving on Christmas Day in other cultures. The gifts are often said to be brought by the three kings, or Magi.

In many Eastern Orthodox churches, Epiphany is celebrated with a special liturgy and the Great Blessing of the Waters, a ritual that commemorates Jesus' baptism in the Jordan River.

Epiphany in Popular Culture

Epiphany has been depicted in numerous works of art, literature, and music. One of the most famous is the painting Adoration of the Magi by Leonardo da Vinci. In literature, the term "epiphany" has come to refer to a sudden insight or realization, a usage popularized by the Irish author James Joyce in his works such as Dubliners.

See Also

• Christmas
• Baptism of Jesus
• Magi
• Ordinary Time