📖 Biblical Definition
The Christian season after Christmas (January 6 onward, ending at Ash Wednesday) celebrating the manifestation of Christ to the nations. The word epiphany (Greek epiphaneia) means showing forth, manifestation. The season anchors on three biblical events of Christ's self-revelation to the world: (1) the visit of the Magi from the East (Matt 2:1-12) — Gentile representatives recognizing the King; (2) the baptism of Jesus by John in the Jordan (Matt 3:13-17) — the voice from heaven publicly declaring His Sonship; (3) the wedding at Cana (John 2:1-11) — the first sign manifesting His glory. Together these events frame Christ's entrance onto the world stage as Lord of nations, Son of God, and miracle-working Messiah. Epiphany is observed across most liturgical Christian traditions; many evangelical and Reformed bodies have not adopted it formally but mark the same events in preaching rotations. The season's emphasis on Gentile inclusion makes it particularly suited to missions-focused preaching.
📜 Webster 1828 Definition
Season celebrating Christ's manifestation to the nations.
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The Christian season beginning January 6 celebrating the manifestation (epiphaneia) of Christ to the world — chiefly the visit of the magi (Christ revealed to the Gentiles), His baptism (declared the beloved Son), and the wedding at Cana (His glory manifested in the first sign).
📖 Key Scripture
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."
Matthew 3:17 — "And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."
John 2:11 — "This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory."
⚠️ Modern Corruption
Forgotten in evangelical churches; the rich Christological themes of the season are missed.
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Epiphany season says: Christ has come — and now He is shown. Magi see; Father declares; first sign reveals. The season trains the church to expect ongoing manifestation of Christ in our seeing of Him through Scripture and Spirit.
🔗 Greek & Hebrew Roots
Greek epiphaneia.
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['Greek', 'G2015', 'epiphaneia', 'manifestation, appearing']
['Greek', 'G5316', 'phainō', 'to shine, appear']
Usage
"Epiphany trains expectation of seeing Christ."
"Magi, baptism, Cana — three manifestations."