The Celebration of the Solemnity of the Epiphany in Eastern Christianity in the Context of the Emergence of the Feast of the Nativity (4th and 5th Centuries)
Miroslaw Mejzner
Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw , Polandhttps://orcid.org/0000-0003-4865-4620
Abstract
The introduction of the Feast of the Nativity (December 25) into the liturgical calendars of the Eastern Churches during the 4th and 5th centuries brought about a significant reconfiguration of the theological meaning and liturgical celebration of the Solemnity of the Epiphany (January 6). This article provides a historical survey of this development in several Eastern ecclesiastical traditions, including Egypt, Jerusalem, Syria, Asia Minor, Cappadocia, and Constantinople. Particular attention is devoted to the theological and liturgical transformation in the understanding of the mystery of Epiphany. Its most distinctive expression is the shift from contemplation of Christ’s birth at Bethlehem to a primary focus on his baptism in the Jordan. This study also highlights the distinctive theological significance of the symbolism of light and water within the Epiphany liturgy. Drawing upon selected patristic homilies by Gregory of Nazianzus, Gregory of Nyssa, John Chrysostom, Proclus of Constantinople, and Severian of Gabala, this article identifies the principal homiletic themes associated with the Solemnity of the Epiphany. It also examines the corpus of biblical lections appointed for its liturgical celebration.
Keywords:
Epiphany, Nativity, baptism of Christ, light, water, Gregory of Nazianzus, Gregory of Nyssa, John Chrysostom, Proclus of Constantinople, Severian of GabalaReferences
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Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw
Rev. Mirosław Mejzner, Ph.D., D.Habil. is an Associate Professor in the Department of Patristic Theology at the Faculty of Theology of the Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University (UKSW) in Warsaw. He earned his doctoral degree from the Patristic Institute Augustinianum in Rome in 2007. His principal research interests include Methodius of Olympus, eschatology, pilgrimage, theology, and culture. He also serves as the Rector of the Pallottine Major Seminary in Ołtarzew.
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