Epiphany is an English term for the moment when a person suddenly understands something important. Epiphany can be a moment of revelation, understanding or awareness. It can also be a moment of happiness or intense joy.
Origin of the word “Epiphany” and its primary meaning
The term “Epiphany” derives from the Greek “epiphaneia” which means “manifestation”. It is a word that was first used by Christians in the 4th century to refer to the birth of Christ.
In the Middle Ages, Epiphany was celebrated on the day of the Nativity of Christ, then gradually, we began to celebrate it on January 6, the day of the arrival of the Three Kings in the Holy Land.
The primary meaning of the word “Epiphany” is therefore religious. It designates the manifestation of God to men, notably through Christ.
But over time, the word took on a broader connotation and today it is commonly used to refer to any extraordinary manifestation, whether religious, political or artistic.
The epiphany of the wise men and its symbolism
The date of the epiphany is associated with the visit of the Magi to Bethlehem. The Magi – also called “three wise men” – were astronomers from the East. They followed a star which guided them to the baby Jesus. When they saw him, they gave him symbolic gifts: gold (for the King of Kings), myrrh (to soften his death) and incense (to honor him as God) .
The symbolism of the gifts of the wise men is very rich. Gold represents the divinity of Jesus, myrrh his humanity (it was often used to embalm the dead) and incense his status as mediator between heaven and earth. These three gifts are symbols of the divine trinity: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.
Epiphany is therefore a very important celebration for Christians, because it recalls the divinity of Jesus and his role as Savior of the world.
The feast of the Epiphany in French-speaking countries
Epiphany is a religious holiday that celebrates the manifestation of God to man, usually in the form of the baby Jesus. It is celebrated on January 6, the day of the birth of Christ according to the Julian calendar. In France, this holiday is also known as “Fête des Rois”.
In French-speaking countries, the feast of the Epiphany is usually celebrated with a large pastry called the galette des Rois. This pastry is traditionally composed of puff pastry filled with frangipane (almond cream) and decorated with porcelain figurines representing the Three Kings. On the occasion of this celebration, lots are also drawn for the Kings and Queens of the year, who are responsible for bringing gifts to the children.
The Epiphany feast is an opportunity for families and friends to come together and share a moment of conviviality around a good meal. It’s also an opportunity to party and dance until the end of the night!
Epiphany is a very ancient festival which celebrates the manifestation of God to men. It takes its primary meaning from the Greek word “epiphaneia” which means manifestation. During the festival, the faithful commemorate the visit of the wise men to the child Jesus. These latter represent all humanity and their offering of myrrh, frankincense and gold symbolize the recognition of God as King, God and Savior. In France, the feast of the Epiphany is celebrated on January 6 and we eat the galette des Rois.