Explanation: Epiphany is a Christian feast day that commemorates the visit of the Magi to the Christ Child, the baptism of Jesus in the River Jordan, and the miracle at the wedding at Cana. It is a celebration of the manifestation of Christ to the world.

Explanation: The word 'Epiphany' comes from the Koine Greek word 'epiphaneia,' meaning 'manifestation' or 'appearance.' It is derived from the verb 'phainein,' meaning 'to appear,' and was historically used to describe the appearance of dawn, an enemy in war, or, most significantly, the manifestation of a deity to a worshipper.

Explanation: In the New Testament, 'Epiphany' is used in 2 Timothy 1:10 to refer either to Christ's birth or his post-resurrection appearance, and in five instances to refer to his Second Coming.

Explanation: The commemoration of Epiphany expanded to include not only the visit of the Magi but also Jesus' birth, various childhood events, his baptism by John the Baptist, and the miracle at the wedding feast in Cana.

Explanation: Epiphany is a Christian feast day that commemorates the visit of the Magi to the Christ Child, the baptism of Jesus in the River Jordan, and the miracle at the wedding at Cana. It is a celebration of the manifestation of Christ to the world.

Explanation: The word 'Epiphany' comes from the Koine Greek word 'epiphaneia,' meaning 'manifestation' or 'appearance.' It is derived from the verb 'phainein,' meaning 'to appear,' and was historically used to describe the appearance of dawn, an enemy in war, or, most significantly, the manifestation of a deity to a worshipper.

Explanation: The commemoration of Epiphany expanded to include not only the visit of the Magi but also Jesus' birth, various childhood events, his baptism by John the Baptist, and the miracle at the wedding feast in Cana.

Explanation: The traditional date for the Epiphany feast is January 6th.

Explanation: Eastern Orthodox churches that follow the Julian calendar observe Epiphany on January 19th (Gregorian calendar) because of the current 13-day difference between the Julian and Gregorian calendars, which corresponds to January 6th in the Julian calendar.

Explanation: The earliest reference to Epiphany as a Christian feast was made by Ammianus Marcellinus in AD 361.

Explanation: Epiphanius of Salamis stated that January 6th was Christ's 'Birthday; that is, His Epiphany,' and also asserted that the Miracle at Cana occurred on the same calendar day. He assigned the Baptism of Jesus to November 6th.

Explanation: Even before AD 354, the Western Church had separated the celebration of Christ's Nativity as Christmas on December 25th, reserving January 6th for the commemoration of Christ's manifestation, particularly to the Magi, but also at his baptism and the wedding feast at Cana.

Explanation: Around AD 385, the pilgrim Egeria described Epiphany celebrations in Jerusalem and Bethlehem that commemorated the Nativity, noting that an octave (an eight-day period) was already associated with the feast.

Explanation: The earliest reference to Epiphany as a Christian feast was made by Ammianus Marcellinus in AD 361.

Explanation: Eastern Orthodox churches that follow the Julian calendar observe Epiphany on January 19th (Gregorian calendar) because of the current 13-day difference between the Julian and Gregorian calendars, which corresponds to January 6th in the Julian calendar.

Explanation: Epiphanius of Salamis stated that January 6th was Christ's 'Birthday; that is, His Epiphany,' and also asserted that the Miracle at Cana occurred on the same calendar day. He assigned the Baptism of Jesus to November 6th.

Explanation: Historically, the date of Easter was announced on Epiphany. This practice originated when calendars were not widely available, and the church needed to inform the community of the date for Easter and other related liturgical celebrations.

Explanation: In Western Christianity, Epiphany primarily commemorates the visit of the Magi to the Christ Child, symbolizing Jesus Christ's physical manifestation to the Gentiles.

Explanation: In Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay, Epiphany is known as 'Día de Reyes' (Day of Kings). The night before, 'Noche de Reyes,' children leave out shoes, grass, and water for the Magi's camels, hoping to receive gifts in the morning. Christmas decorations are traditionally put away on January 6th.

Explanation: Chalking the door is a custom where the initials of the Magi (traditionally Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar) are written above doorways with blessed chalk. This is often accompanied by the inscription of the year and sometimes the phrase 'Christus mansionem benedicat' (May Christ bless the house), intended to protect the home.

Explanation: The 'Three Kings Cake' (or similar variations like 'Galette des Rois' or 'Dreikönigskuchen') is a traditional Epiphany pastry often containing a hidden charm or bean. The person who finds it is crowned 'king' or 'queen' for the day, symbolizing the Magi's gifts and the festive nature of the holiday.

Explanation: In German-speaking regions, 'Sternsinger' are groups of children, often dressed as the Magi, who travel door-to-door singing songs and performing house blessings with chalk. They collect donations for charitable causes, embodying the spirit of the Magi's journey and offering blessings.

Explanation: In Ireland, Epiphany is traditionally called 'Little Christmas' or 'Nollaig na mBan' (Women's Christmas). It was a day for women to rest and celebrate after the work of the Christmas holidays, often gathering for meals or visiting pubs.

Explanation: In Italian folklore, La Befana is a witch-like old woman who delivers gifts to children on Epiphany Eve (January 5th). She is said to have missed the opportunity to give gifts to the Christ Child and now travels on her broomstick, bringing treats to good children and coal to the naughty ones.

Explanation: In Guadeloupe, Epiphany marks the beginning of Carnival ('Kannaval'), which lasts until Ash Wednesday, rather than being the end of Christmas celebrations. This period culminates in the burning of 'Vaval,' the king of the carnival.

Explanation: The 'Rosca de Reyes' is a ring-shaped Epiphany cake, often decorated with candied fruits, eaten in Spain and Mexico. It traditionally contains a hidden figurine representing the baby Jesus, and the person who finds it is often crowned king or queen for the day.

Explanation: The Great Fruitcake Toss in Manitou Springs, Colorado, is an Epiphany event where fruitcakes are thrown, participants dress in costumes, and competitions are held for the farthest throw. It serves as a humorous, symbolic end to the Christmas season, playing on the often-derided nature of fruitcake in the US.

Explanation: In Wales, Epiphany is known as 'Ystwyll.' Traditions included preparing a large cake divided into three parts, with hidden rings to crown a king or queen. The 'Hunting of the Wren' involved capturing a wren (or sparrow), placing it in a decorated cage, and showing it house-to-house for money or gifts.

Explanation: In Western Christianity, Epiphany primarily commemorates the visit of the Magi to the Christ Child, symbolizing Jesus Christ's physical manifestation to the Gentiles.

Explanation: Chalking the door is a custom where the initials of the Magi (traditionally Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar) are written above doorways with blessed chalk. This is often accompanied by the inscription of the year and sometimes the phrase 'Christus mansionem benedicat' (May Christ bless the house), intended to protect the home.

Explanation: In Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay, Epiphany is known as 'Día de Reyes' (Day of Kings). The night before, 'Noche de Reyes,' children leave out shoes, grass, and water for the Magi's camels, hoping to receive gifts in the morning. Christmas decorations are traditionally put away on January 6th.

Explanation: The 'Three Kings Cake' (or similar variations like 'Galette des Rois' or 'Dreikönigskuchen') is a traditional Epiphany pastry often containing a hidden charm or bean. The person who finds it is crowned 'king' or 'queen' for the day, symbolizing the Magi's gifts and the festive nature of the holiday.

Explanation: In German-speaking regions, 'Sternsinger' are groups of children, often dressed as the Magi, who travel door-to-door singing songs and performing house blessings with chalk. They collect donations for charitable causes, embodying the spirit of the Magi's journey and offering blessings.

Explanation: In Ireland, Epiphany is traditionally called 'Little Christmas' or 'Nollaig na mBan' (Women's Christmas). It was a day for women to rest and celebrate after the work of the Christmas holidays, often gathering for meals or visiting pubs.

Explanation: In Italian folklore, La Befana is a witch-like old woman who delivers gifts to children on Epiphany Eve (January 5th). She is said to have missed the opportunity to give gifts to the Christ Child and now travels on her broomstick, bringing treats to good children and coal to the naughty ones.

Explanation: In Guadeloupe, Epiphany marks the beginning of Carnival ('Kannaval'), which lasts until Ash Wednesday, rather than being the end of Christmas celebrations. This period culminates in the burning of 'Vaval,' the king of the carnival.

Explanation: In Peru, the 'Bajada de Reyes' is a popular custom associated with Epiphany, involving parties held to honor the taking down and storing of nativity scenes until the following Christmas. It reflects the cultural blend of Spanish and Latin American traditions.

Explanation: In the Philippines, Epiphany is known as 'Three Kings' Day' and 'Pasko ng Matatanda' (Feast of the Elderly). It marks the official end of the Christmas season, with traditions including gift-giving and greetings of 'Happy Three Kings!'

Explanation: In Portugal, groups sing 'Reis' (Kings), traditional songs about Jesus' life, going from house to house on Epiphany. They are welcomed inside and offered sweets and liqueurs, with these singing groups often continuing their rounds until January 20th.

Explanation: Epiphany is observed by Christians across various denominations, including Eastern Orthodox, Catholic, Lutheran, Anglican, and Methodist churches. Additionally, Alawites also observe this feast.

Explanation: 'Eid al-Ghitas' is the Coptic Orthodox name for Epiphany in Egypt, translating to 'Baptism.' It commemorates the baptism of Jesus, signifying the moment God revealed himself as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and is considered a moment of epiphany or revelation.

Explanation: In Eastern Orthodox churches, the Great Blessing of Waters is a significant ritual performed on Epiphany (Theophany). This ceremony, often involving casting a cross into a body of water, symbolizes Jesus' baptism and is believed to imbue the water with special purifying and healing properties.

Explanation: In Greece and Cyprus, Epiphany is called Theophany or colloquially 'Phota' (Lights). Customs revolve around the Great Blessing of the Waters, where a cross is thrown into the water, and men compete to retrieve it. This ritual is believed to cleanse the waters and protect against evil spirits, marking the end of the traditional ban on sailing.

Explanation: Al-Maghtas, meaning 'baptism' or 'immersion' in Arabic, is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Jordan on the east bank of the Jordan River. It is believed to be the original location of Jesus' baptism and is venerated as such, attracting thousands of pilgrims and tourists annually for Epiphany celebrations.

Explanation: Assyrian Christians in Iraq celebrate Epiphany, known as 'Etha de Denha,' on January 6th by splashing water on each other with buckets or hoses, symbolizing the baptism of Jesus.

Explanation: The Ethiopian Orthodox celebration of Epiphany is called 'Timkat.' It occurs on January 19th (Gregorian calendar) and involves blessing water, solemn processions with sacred tabots, and sprinkling or immersing participants in the blessed water.

Explanation: The Armenian Apostolic Church celebrates January 6th as both the Nativity ('Soorp Tsnund') and Theophany of Christ. This feast is preceded by a seven-day fast, and the liturgy includes the 'Eucharist of the lighting of the lamps,' honoring Jesus' manifestation as the Son of God.

Explanation: Epiphany is also known by several other names, including Theophany (particularly in Eastern Christian traditions), Three Kings' Day, Little Christmas, Denha, Timkat, Reyes, Uphalimass, Eid al-Ghitas, and Eid al-Qiddas.

Explanation: Alternative Greek names for Epiphany include 'ta Theophania' (Theophany), 'i Hemera ton Photon' (The Day of the Lights), and 'ta Phota' (The Lights).

Explanation: In Egypt, Epiphany is known as 'Eid al-Ghitas.' This name relates to the moment in Jesus' baptism when the skies opened, signifying the revelation of God as the Father of Jesus and all humanity.

Explanation: Al-Maghtas, meaning 'baptism' or 'immersion' in Arabic, is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Jordan on the east bank of the Jordan River. It is believed to be the original location of Jesus' baptism and is venerated as such, attracting thousands of pilgrims and tourists annually for Epiphany celebrations.

Explanation: Assyrian Christians in Iraq celebrate Epiphany, known as 'Etha de Denha,' on January 6th by splashing water on each other with buckets or hoses, symbolizing the baptism of Jesus.

Explanation: The Ethiopian Orthodox celebration of Epiphany is called 'Timkat.' It occurs on January 19th (Gregorian calendar) and involves blessing water, solemn processions with sacred tabots, and sprinkling or immersing participants in the blessed water.

Explanation: In Russia, a tradition involves cutting ice holes, often in the shape of a cross ('iordani'), in frozen lakes and rivers. Participants then bathe in the freezing water, dipping themselves three times to honor the Holy Trinity, symbolically washing away sins and experiencing spiritual rebirth.

Explanation: In Eastern Orthodox churches, 'Theophany' means 'God shining forth' or 'divine manifestation.' It specifically refers to the revelation of Jesus Christ as the Messiah and the Second Person of the Trinity at his baptism in the Jordan River.

Explanation: Paramony, the Eve of Theophany, is observed as a strict fast day. It involves readings from the Old Testament foreshadowing Christ's baptism and culminates in the celebration of the Royal Hours and a combined Vespers and Divine Liturgy, tying it to other major feasts like Nativity and Good Friday.

Explanation: Tarpon Springs, Florida, known as 'Epiphany City,' holds elaborate Greek Orthodox ceremonies for Epiphany, culminating in the ceremonial throwing of a cross into Spring Bayou. Boys dive to retrieve it, with the finder believed to be blessed for the year. This event draws large crowds and is a major cultural celebration.

Explanation: Johann Sebastian Bach composed two cantatas for the feast of Epiphany in Leipzig: 'Sie werden aus Saba alle kommen,' BWV 65 (1724), and 'Liebster Immanuel, Herzog der Frommen,' BWV 123 (1725). Part VI of his Christmas Oratorio was also designated for Epiphany services.

Explanation: Johann Sebastian Bach composed two cantatas for the feast of Epiphany in Leipzig: 'Sie werden aus Saba alle kommen,' BWV 65 (1724), and 'Liebster Immanuel, Herzog der Frommen,' BWV 123 (1725). Part VI of his Christmas Oratorio was also designated for Epiphany services.

Explanation: Two well-known carols associated with Epiphany are 'As with Gladness, Men of Old,' written by William Chatterton Dix, and 'We Three Kings of Orient Are,' written by John Henry Hopkins Jr.