THE GREAT FEAST OF EPIPHANY

Epiphany is a Greek word, which means “appearance” or manifestation. As a feast, it is older than Christmas, and was celebrated already before 194 ad. In Western Christianity, it has lost most of its impact, but in the Orthodox Church it is still a very important solemnity. 

Three main events are celebrated

In this feast, we celebrate three main events that imply the manifestation of Jesus’ glory: 

1) the search and recognition by the Magi of Jesus as saviour of all peoples of the world; 

2) Jesus’ baptism, with the coming of the Holy Spirit and the proclamation of Jesus as the beloved Son; 

3) the marriage in Cana, where Jesus’ glory was recognised by his disciples. 

In this feast, the Orthodox (Eastern Church) puts the stress on the Baptism of Jesus, while the Western Church puts the stress on the Magi, also referred to as Kings, coming in search of the Messiah.

Guided by a star

It is interesting that they came from the East, from the rising sun. From there, the great enemies of the people of Israel (Assyria, Babylonia, Persia) had come as well, in the previous centuries. The Assyrians and Babylonians always showed a great interest in the study of the stars and dedicated themselves to astrology, trying to discover their influence in human life and behaviour. It is not surprising that a star guided the Magi, and that star indicates a heart full of hope in their continuous search for the Saviour. In the search for life and salvation, one needs to join forces with others, accepting their contribution, even when they try to lead you astray or to make use of you for their wicked plans (as it was with Herod).

The search for meaning, life and salvation

This ability to read the signs that present themselves in our history and the ability to search tirelessly for meaning and for the Saviour is essential in our lives.

Those nameless strangers searched for Jesus, and Jesus allowed himself to be encountered, recognised and revered by them; while the political and religious leaders in Jerusalem were afraid of Jesus and plotted to kill him. When we become contented with what we are and what we know, stopping the search for truth, justice and holiness, then we become entrapped in the web of our own making and will become like the cruel and unjust Herod.

The feast of Epiphany is the celebration of Jesus coming as Saviour of all those who look for him and are ready to accept him.