Epiphany

Epiphany comes from the Greek epiphaneia, meaning "appearance" or "manifestation." In common language, an epiphany is a moment of sudden insight or realization that changes one’s understanding.

In Christian tradition, Epiphany is a feast celebrating the revelation of Christ to the Gentiles and the world. In Western churches, it centers on the visit of the Magi to the infant Jesus, often called the Manifestation. The feast is typically observed on January 6, marking the end of the Christmas season; many Western churches, however, observe it on the Sunday between January 2 and 8.

In Eastern Orthodoxy, the corresponding feast is called Theophany and emphasizes the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan, seen as the manifestation of the Holy Trinity. Some churches include additional manifestations or epiphanies as part of the liturgical calendar.

Beyond religion, epiphany is used to describe a sudden realization that solves a problem or clarifies a situation. The term also appears in literature and psychology to indicate moments that catalyze change. Cultural customs associated with Epiphany include public holidays, processions, or feasts such as the tradition of blessing homes or sharing special pastries.