On January 6th, Epiphany Day, we celebrate Three Kings’ Day, a date traditionally observed with the Rosca de Reyes.
More and more bakeries start selling this delicious bread days, even weeks in advance. But, what day is the Rosca de Reyes shared? Is it on January 5th or 6th?
Traditionally, the Rosca de Reyes should be shared on January 6th; this date marks the celebration of the Epiphany, when the Wise Men from the East, better known as the Three Kings, visited Jesus and brought Him gifts.
It is customary to share the Rosca de Reyes with friends, family, and even at the office.
What do the elements of the Rosca de Reyes symbolize?
This bread is round in shape to signify God’s infinite love and evoke the crowns of the kings.
Some versions suggest that the Rosca de Reyes represents the Advent crown, a period of four weeks before the birth of Jesus. During Advent, Catholics place a crown with four candles and light one each Sunday leading up to Christmas.
The Rosca de Reyes is decorated with strips of quince paste, candied fruits, sugar bands, and in the past, acitrón. Modern versions often include chocolate (like Turin bunnies), nuts, and other elements.
The sweets decorating the Rosca de Reyes symbolize the jewels found in a crown.
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Why is a figurine placed inside the Rosca?
Mexico adopted the tradition of the Rosca de Reyes from Spain in the 16th century. The Rosca de Reyes celebrates the visit of the Wise Men to Jesus.
In Mexico, it became customary to place a figurine representing Jesus inside the Rosca, symbolizing when the Christ Child had to be hidden due to King Herod’s massacre of infants.
The Mexican tradition dictates that those who find the figurine in their Rosca are committed to providing tamales on Candlemas Day, celebrated on February 2nd.
How many figurines does the Rosca de Reyes have?
The Rosca de Reyes can include two to ten or more figurines, depending on its size and number of portions. Initially, the bread only had one figurine, and in its origins, a bean was used instead.
What is its origin? History
The Rosca de Reyes originates from Roman Saturnalia, pagan festivities dedicated to the god Saturn. During these celebrations, a round bread with figs, dates, and honey was made and shared among everyone.
In the 3rd century, a dried bean was inserted into the bread, and the person who found it would be named “king of kings” for a short period.
Who are the Three Kings, and what do they bring?
The Bible does not specify that three Wise Men visited Jesus; this is assumed due to the number of gifts. However, Eastern traditions speak of 12, and some sacred art depicts two or eight.
The Gospel of Matthew is the only one to mention the Wise Men in a passage: “Upon entering the house, they saw the child with Mary, his mother, and prostrated themselves in homage. Then, opening their treasures, they offered Him gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.”
The names of the Three Kings do not appear in the Bible, and even their number is not specified.
A 7th-century manuscript in Paris mentions the Wise Men who worshipped the Child Jesus: Bitisarea, Melchior, and Gataspa. By the 9th century, the names Gaspar, Melchior, and Balthazar had become widespread.
Melchior generally represents Europe and offers gold for Christ’s royalty.
Gaspar represents Asia and brings incense to honor Jesus’ divinity.
Balthazar, portrayed as black and from Africa, offers myrrh, a substance used for embalming, symbolizing the humanity of the Son of God.
Additionally, the Three Kings represent the stages of human life: youth (Gaspar), adulthood (Balthazar), and old age (Melchior).
Meaning of the gifts of the Three Kings
The gifts they presented to Jesus symbolize: gold for being a king, myrrh for being human, and incense for being God. At that time, all three elements were highly valuable.
Giving gifts to children on January 6th commemorates the generosity of the Wise Men, as highlighted in the Bible: “Whatever you do for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you do for me.”
What is myrrh, and what is it used for?
Myrrh is an aromatic resin derived from a tree. In ancient times, it was used to make balms and ointments to perfume the bodies of the dead.
What are the animals of the Three Kings?
Melchior is represented riding a camel; Gaspar rides a horse, and Balthazar, on an elephant.
Phrases and quotes
- May the Three Kings bring you abundant joy and blessings today!
- Wishing you a bright and joyous Three Kings Day celebration.
- May your Epiphany be filled with light, hope, and happiness.
- Happy Three Kings Day! May the guiding star fill your life with peace and love.
- May this special day bring you sweet surprises and heartfelt moments.
- Sending you warm wishes for a peaceful and meaningful Feast of the Epiphany.
- May you follow the star that leads to prosperity and new beginnings.
- May the Magi’s gifts inspire hope and gratitude in your heart.
- On this Epiphany, may every blessing find its way to you and your family.
- May the journey of the Three Wise Men remind you to seek wonder in every day.
- Celebrate today with faith, happiness, and the magic of this joyous season.
- Wishing you a wonderful Three Kings Day filled with love, kindness, and laughter.
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