Epiphany Day – Greek customs – Έθιμα των Φώτων
The Epiphany Day, 6th January, the Orthodox celebrate the baptism of Jesus Christ by John Prodromos, the Baptist. It is a great celebration since all three Persons of the Holy Trinity – Father, Son and Holy Spirit – were made manifest. The name of the Feast, Epiphany, means manifestation. Synonym word is Theophany, which is the manifestation of God.
Asvestochori of Thessaloniki
In one village of Thessaloniki, named Asvestochiri, the custom of “Lights with oranges” is still preserved. The Epiphany eve the prayers set up a table outside Saint George church with cypress branches and oranges and they form a cross. During the church service of the Epiphany Day, 5th January, children stand all around the cross holding big candles. The candles are decorated with two oranges, an apple and dry figs tied with a red thread.
Lefkada
In Lefkada the custom of “oranges” is widely known. People dive into the sea oranges which are tied together with string. Then they take them home for blessing and leave one of them for a whole year on the icons of the house. Before the ceremony of diving the Holy Cross, they throw the old oranges into the sea.
Crete
In Crete, during the exe of the Lights celebration, people make a special food named “palikaria”. It is made of seeds and legumes, such as beans, lentils, corn and wheat. This food is given to the aimals of Cretans, too. It is also scattered in different places of people’s homes.
Kavala
In Nikisiani of Kavala and in several villages of Drama, the “Arapides” custom is widely known. Young men disguise themselves wearing sheepskin and animal snouts. Moreover, the bells adorn their waists, creating heavy noise.
“Kala Fota” to everybody!
Λεξιλόγιο – Vocabulary
1/ η βάφτιση = baptism
2/ βουτάω = to dive
3/ το έθιμο = custom
4/ η εικόνα = icon
5/ η λειτουργία = church service
