Epiphany

Don’t think the Christmas holidays are over: Epiphany is celebrated on January 6th and symbolizes the end of the festivities. From Greek, the name is translated as “Phenomena”. By the way, in the Middle Ages it was called “Theophany”. Find out more about him!

History

The traditions of each country are individual, but that’s what makes it more interesting! The Germans today celebrate the “Dreikönigstag” by organizing processions and praising Jesus with songs. Women and men collect money for charitable purposes. The French cook the famous “Pie of the Magi”. Its filling is not only delicious, but also unexpected: a coin or a bean is placed inside, and the one who has it in the plate receives the nickname “King” or “Queen” throughout the evening.

Spaniards give gifts to children. The day before the celebration, each child prepares a glass of water and some snack and puts it all near the door. A treat is intended for the Magi, who are tired of the path they have traveled. Their arrival marks the beginning of Epiphany! In Iceland, the holiday is called Day 13. In many European countries, it is customary to broadcast signs or inscriptions in chalk “S + M + V” on the front doors – the abbreviation means “Christ blesses this house”.

Interesting facts

Amazing Moments About Magi:

• information about the arrival of the Eastern sages is reflected only in the Gospel of Matthew. It is said here that the magi saw an unusual bright star, signifying the birth of the king, and followed him to bow;
• they brought Jesus frankincense, myrrh, and gold;
• Joseph (Mary’s husband) had a dream that he needed to pack up and flee to Egypt because of the atrocities of Herod. He obeyed, and after that, the cruel events of the massacre of babies took place in Bethlehem;
• John Chrysostom believed that the wise men saw the star prophesying the birth of Christ long before the event;
• in the 13th century, the monk Jacob Voraginsky published a collection of the lives of the saints called The Golden Legend.

How to celebrate

Keep the traditions of your country in Epiphany and celebrate an important day! Go caroling, give gifts, meet friends… Remove all Christmas paraphernalia from the house after the celebration.

When is Epiphany celebrated in 2024?

Epiphany is observed on January 6 each year.

Observations