What is the Epiphany?
The Epiphany is celebrated on January 6, it corresponds to the first presentation as well as the giftig of presents to baby Jesus from the 3 Wise Men: Balthazar, Gaspard and Melhior. Its origin is thus from the Catholic religion, Epiphany is the presentation of Jesus to the world. What is the Epiphany?
The Galette des rois and its origins :
The Galette des rois dates from the 14th century. It was divided into as many portions as there were guests, plus one. This extra portion, called « part du Bon Dieu » or « part de la Vierge », was destined for the first poor person who came along. For a long time, Epiphany was more important than Christmas Day. This feast was even, at one time, the time when gifts were offered.
What is the Epiphany?
[Holidays in France]
Where does the bean tradition comes from?
The bean hidden in the dough of the galette des rois dates back to Roman times. It was originally a real bean (edible seed), hence its name. Then in the 19th century the fashion of beans of all kinds appeared, and we found beans made of gold, bone, porcelain and even ivory. Nowadays, every baker has his own beans which are a joy for the people who collect them. It is the symbol of fertilization and a reminder of the offering made to the son of God.
How does this French tradition work?
It is customary for the youngest guest to slide under the table to designate to whom the slices will be given. Then the one who cuts the portions says, « And this portion, who is it for? »
Until all the shares are distributed. Obviously, for the smartest parents, the smallest being under the table, if they have seen where the bean is, they can easily put the part with the bean on the smallest one’s plate. The one who finds the bean in his share is crowned king… and chooses his queen (or vice versa). She/he then gives her/his crown to the chosen one.
It is also customary for the king to offer the next cake at home the following week.
Etymology of the word Epiphany ?
Epiphany comes from Greek and means manifestation, appearance.
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