Liturgical day · kjv
What Is Epiphany?
Epiphany is celebrated on January 6, twelve days after Christmas. It commemorates the visit of the Magi to the infant Jesus — the moment Christ was revealed to the nations, not just to Israel.
History & Origin
The word "Epiphany" means "manifestation" or "revelation." The feast originated in the Eastern Church as early as the 2nd century, originally combining three revelations of Christ: his birth, the visit of the Magi, and his baptism in the Jordan. The Western Church gradually narrowed the focus to the visit of the Magi, while the Eastern Church still emphasizes the baptism. In many cultures Epiphany is a major gift-giving day (Three Kings Day) — echoing the gifts of the Magi.
How It Is Observed
Epiphany is observed with special services featuring the reading of Matthew 2, blessing of homes with chalked inscriptions (e.g., "20 + C+M+B + 26" — the traditional names of the Magi), and in many Latin American and European cultures, the sharing of a "King Cake" with a hidden figurine. It officially closes the Christmas season and opens a new liturgical period.
Scripture for Epiphany
Matthew 2:2
“Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.”
Matthew 2:11
“And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.”
Isaiah 60:3
“And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising.”
Matthew 2:10
“When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.”
Psalm 72:10
“The kings of Tarshish and of the isles shall bring presents: the kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer gifts.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the Magi?
The Magi (or Wise Men) were likely Persian or Babylonian astrologer-scholars. Scripture does not name them, number them, or call them kings — those traditions developed later. What the text emphasizes is that they were Gentiles who recognized the King of the Jews and traveled far to worship him.
What do gold, frankincense, and myrrh mean?
Traditional Christian interpretation: gold for kingship, frankincense for priesthood (as offered in temple worship), and myrrh for burial (anointing). Together the gifts foreshadowed that Jesus would be King, Priest, and the One who would die.
What is Twelfth Night?
Twelfth Night is the evening before Epiphany — the twelfth and final night of the Christmas season. It is traditionally a night of feasting and revelry before the quieter season that follows.
Why is Epiphany on January 6?
January 6 was already an ancient feast date in some traditions. The Western Church chose it for the Magi story because it placed the arrival of the nations 12 days after the birth of Christ — a symbolically meaningful interval between the arrival of the shepherds (on Christmas night) and the arrival of the Gentiles.