Catholic Epiphany

Epiphany is a traditional Christian holiday celebrated by Germans on January 6. As a rule, it is of particular importance in the lands of Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg and Saxony-Anhalt. It is also known as the "Day of the Three Kings" (Dreikonigstag). Protestants sometimes call it “Großneujahr”.

At the heart of the celebration of “Epiphany” (translated as “appearance”) is a biblical story from the New Testament. It refers to the story of the journey of three Magi Kings - Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar - from the Middle East behind the star of Bethlehem, indicated by the angelic choir. When they found the baby Jesus lying in the manger, they worshiped him and presented him with rich gifts: gold, incense and incense - myrrh.

In general, in the ancient East, the Magi called wise people who were prescribed knowledge of the hidden forces of nature, communication with the gods and the possession of supernatural power. It was said that the three kings could prevent the blows of fate and take away all evil from man, his house and cattle.

The celebration of the Epiphany consists in attending a solemn mass in the church and a family dinner after midnight by the fireplace. The meal should be as rich and abundant as possible. Dishes are usually the same as prepared for the New Year and Christmas holidays.

This evening, the boys, dressed in white hoodies with crowns on their heads and a long pole topped with a star, walk with songs from house to house and bless their owners. This is called the procession of the three kings. The face of one of them can be smeared with soot - he depicts the magic of Melchior.

According to custom, the owner writes over the door of the house the initial Latin letters of the names of the three kings-magi: "C, M, B" (Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar), indicates the year and draws a cross. It means, “God bless this house.” Such an inscription should protect the house and its inhabitants from misfortune.

It is believed that the day after the Day of the Three Kings was added, and the night receded.

This is the last time a tree is lit, as it completes the cycle of Christmas holidays.

Epiphany is celebrated not only in Germany, but also in some Swiss cities (Zurich, Bern, Lausanne, Glarus, Zug, etc.).