Epiphany is a Christian feast day that celebrates the revelation of God incarnate as Jesus Christ. The special day is also known as Theophany, Little Christmas, or Three Kings' Day. It is one of the very first holidays of the year, which comes on the heels of Christmas celebrations. The Epiphany date can vary. Most commonly, the Epiphany is recognized on January 6, or the first Sunday falling between January 2 and January 8. This year, Epiphany 2023 will be celebrated on January 6. The celebrations of Epiphany are full of joy and happiness, where people come together with families and enjoy the feast. 12 Days of Christmas Significance: Know All About When the Days Begin, Their Association With the Christmas Carol and How They Are Celebrated.

According to historical records, the feast commemorates the visit of the Magi to the baby Jesus principally, and thus Christ's physical manifestation to the Gentiles. In some Churches, the feast of the Epiphany initiates the Epiphany season, also known as Epiphanytide. As we celebrate Epiphany 2023, here’s all you need to know about the Epiphany Day 2023 date, history and significance.

History of Epiphany

The earliest reference to Epiphany as a Christian feast was in A.D. 361, by Ammianus Marcellinus. Epiphany may have originated in the Greek-speaking eastern half of the Roman Empire as a feast to honour the baptism of Jesus. Epiphany is celebrated in many parts of the world on January 6, where the holiday commemorates the day when the three wise men, or Magi, visited the baby Jesus.

According to history, around 200, Clement of Alexandria wrote, "But the followers of [the early Christian Gnostic religious teacher] Basilides celebrate the day of His Baptism too, spending the previous night in readings. And they say that it was the 15th of the month Tybi of the 15th year of Tiberius Caesar. And some say that it was observed the 11th of the same month." The Egyptian dates given correspond to January 6 and 10.

Significance of Epiphany

Both the Eastern and Western Churches celebrate Epiphany. The significant difference between the two is precisely about when the feast begins. As per historical records, for Western Christians, the feast primarily commemorates the coming of the Magi, with only a minor reference to the baptism of Jesus and the miracle at the Wedding at Cana. Eastern churches celebrate the Baptism of Christ in Jordan. However, in both traditions, the essence of the feast is the same: the manifestation of Christ to the world. The special day is celebrated with great enthusiasm, and people feast with their families.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 05, 2023 01:05 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).