On 11th of Tobi, Copts of Egypt will celebrate Epiphany, one of the major Christian feasts and it is Wednesday, 20th of January this year. Thus, I congratulate you cordially wishing that peace and goodness prevail in Egypt, Middle East and the world.
John the Baptist is the major character in this feast and he was given by many nicknames like the Preceder of the Messiah and the Baptizer. He is the prophet who called for repentance of the Jewish people and he is the Baptizer of Jesus Christ.
John is a Hebrew name that means God is Compassionate. He is the son of Zacharias the priest and Elizabeth that the Bible mentioned that “They were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless”. Elizabeth, his mother, was barren and that was considered a shame in the Old Testament. During the service of Zacharias in the altar, Gabriel, angel of Lord brought him the good tidings that he will have a son called John.“But the angel said to him, ‘Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink.'” Zacharias was amazed as his wife and he were old. Thus the angel told him that he will be mute till the child’s birth. When the child was born, Zacharias asked his relatives about his name and they wrote that the child should be called John,” Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God”.” Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, ‘What kind of child will this be?’ ” . John’s birth preceded birth of Jesus Christ by 6 months. John was in the deserts till the beginning of his service at thirty which is the legal age to be a servant at that time.
John the Baptist was the sound of truth during his short period of service that lasted only for 6 months. He recognized the corrupted state of his society and the deterioration of the people and soldiers. Thus, he called for their repentance till they reacted to his calling and came to him to be baptized at the river of Jordan confessing their sins. He taught the people to do actions of mercy and love and warned them to stop their evil deeds that would bring about God’s wrath. When they asked him about what they should do, he answered saying, “He who has two tunics, let him give to him who has none; and he who has food, let him do likewise.”
He also said the truth to the tax collectors,” Collect no more than what is appointed for you” and wasn’t afraid of soldiers whom he told “Do not intimidate anyone or accuse falsely”.
His call extended to reach governors as Herod the king wished to marry his brother’s wife, Herodias, which was refused religiously. John was not afraid of the king’s authority but he called for the truth and told him” It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” which resulted in Herodias’ failed attempts to kill John till the chance came at Herod’s birthday. “And when Herodias’ daughter herself came in and danced, and pleased Herod and those who sat with him, the king said to the girl, “Ask me whatever you want, and I will give it to you.” 23 He also swore to her, “Whatever you ask me, I will give you, up to half my kingdom.”… immediately she came in with haste to the king and asked, saying, “I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.” .And for the sake of the king’s oath, he sent for an executioner and asked him to bring John’s head thus he went and behead him at the prison.
Thus, John the Baptist lived truthfully without harming or defaming any person. He has never been partial to anyone. He offered the message of truth in marvelous modesty thus he deserved to be a great man.
Many happy returns to you, May we always share celebrations and feasts as Egyptians.
Anba Ermiah,
General Bishop& President of the Coptic Orthodox Cultural Center
