The History of Epiphany and Its Connection to Christmas
The history and evolution of the Christmas celebration have introduced to us an absolute truth we have debated about for quite a while. Starting with the fact of whether the date of Christmas is the real date of Jesus’ birth to the real circumstances surrounding his birth. All of these things establish premises for arguments and discussions.
To know whether or not the epiphany is the end of Christmas, specific facts will help. Take as the first point to prove this fact; the work of art by William Shakespeare, “Twelfth Night.” The play clearly stated that the Twelfth Night of the season of Christmas is the eve of Epiphany. And that signals the end of the Christmas season in all.
The Cultural Significance of Epiphany
Also, the song “The Twelve Days Of Christmas.” That song reads out that the days of Christmas are only twelve days. That means that Christmas ends on the 5th of January. What this means is that the day after Jan 5, which is January 6, the day of Epiphany, is the final day of the season.
It is even believed that your Christmas decorations should not stay up for longer than the 12 days. No one must have their décor still hanging after these 12 days elapse. It is seen as an omen of bad luck if you keep your Christmas décor up until the day of Epiphany.
In England, the tradition dictates that the celebration of Christmas ends on the 5th of January. This is another twist.
The Role of Epiphany in Different Christian Denominations
Several churches hold their décor up till the Epiphany celebration. The catholic churches also celebrate the Epiphany even more. They celebrate it as the day of the birth of Jesus Christ.
Another fantastic part of the Epiphany is that it is one tradition that has lasted for a very long time. The culture is as old as the early churches. Interestingly, the celebration of the Epiphany started before Christmas began. Ideally, it is the end of the Christmas season.