Articles / Special

Adoration of the Magi (17th century) (Credit : Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons)

On this feast, the Church celebrates the manifestation (epiphany) of Christ to the Nations (Gentiles) in the persons of the Magi – also known as the Wise Men or the Three Kings. In earlier times, this feast combined two other manifestations: one that took place at the Lord’s Baptism and one that took place in Cana at the wedding feast. This is still the custom in Eastern Christianity.

Origins of the Church's Celebration

The celebration of the Epiphany dates back to the early centuries of the Church. Originally, it included the celebration of Christ’s birth. It wasn’t until 336, under the reign of Emperor Constantine, that the Church began celebrating Christmas separately, on December 25, creating the 12 Days of Christmas which continued through the Feast of the Epiphany. While the actual date of the Feast of the Epiphany is January 6, in the United States, the celebration of the feast is transferred to the weekend closest to that date.

Core Significance

Manifestation: The word "Epiphany" comes from the Greek epiphaneia, meaning "revelation" or "manifestation". It marks the moment Jesus was made known as the Son of God and Savior of the world.
The Magi: In Western Christianity, the primary focus is the visit of the Magi (Three Wise Men), representing the first manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles (non-Jewish people).
The Three Wonders: Historically, the feast also encompasses two other major "epiphanies": the Baptism of Jesus in the Jordan and the first miracle at the Wedding at Cana.

Symbolism of the Gifts

The gifts presented by the Magi symbolize different aspects of Jesus' identity and mission:
Gold: Represents His Kingship.
Frankincense: Symbolizes His Divinity and role as Priest.
Myrrh: Foreshadows His suffering, death, and burial.

Reflection

Epiphany not only manifests Jesus, the Son of God, but also reveals our hearts. It shows us that the Savior can be welcomed (as happened with the shepherds and the Magi) and rejected (as happened with King Herod). Let’s not hide the fact that there are aspects of “the magi” and aspects of “King Herod” in each of us. The Magi teach us that life is a journey and that we are invited to live it as Jesus did, while the Herods of this world delude and flatter us into believing that success and power are necessary in order to exist.

- Article by Catholic Time Staff