Meaning of epiphany of the lord (what is it, concept and definition)

What is the Epiphany of the Lord:

The Epiphany of the Lords a Christian celebration. Etymologically, the word "epiphany" means " manifestation " and referring to the Lord corresponds to the moments when Jesus manifests himself or reveals himself to the world. It is usually identified with the Day of Kings, however, in the Christian tradition there are at least three moments in which Jesus manifests himself.

Epiphany to the Magi of the East

The Three Kings Day or Three Kings Day is celebrated and it is the best known Epiphany. It takes place on January 6 and is part of the liturgical celebrations of Christmas. The celebrations associated with this event vary according to each country. In some places of Catholic tradition it is usual to offer gifts and prepare special sweets.

Originally, in ancient eastern cultures, the increase in sunlight after the winter solstice was celebrated on this date, as an event associated with the arrival of light and the end of darkness. The Epiphany to the Magi from the East was made to coincide with the celebrations considered pagan and that worshiped the sun.

In Catholic doctrine, the child Jesus reveals himself to the Magi, representatives of other civilizations and the pagan world, who identify him as the Messiah. The arrival of a Savior had been announced in various Old Testament texts, so this moment is of great importance.

The encounter with Jesus appears related in the Gospel according to Saint Matthew: “When they saw the star, the wise men were filled with joy. Then they entered the house and saw the boy with Maria, his mother. And kneeling down, they adored him. They opened their chests and offered him gold, frankincense, and myrrh. "(Mt 2: 10-11)

Epiphany to Saint John the Baptist during Baptism

According to tradition, Jesus manifests himself to the Jews through Saint John the Baptist during his Baptism in the Jordan River. The revelation of Jesus as the Son of God is related through a dove representing the Holy Spirit.

This manifestation appears in the Gospel according to Saint Matthew: "And Jesus, after being baptized, immediately rose from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and settling on him. And behold, a voice from heaven saying: This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. " (Mt 3: 16-17)

Epiphany to His Disciples at the Wedding Feast at Cana

It refers to the moment when Jesus begins his public activity and manifests himself through the so-called "miracle of Cana".

It appears in the Gospel according to Saint John this way: "This which Jesus did in Cana of Galilee was the first miraculous sign with which he showed his glory; and his disciples believed in him." (Jn 2:11)