Iconography

This icon of the Epiphany retakes common elements from the representation of the Epiphany in the iconographical tradition. The Trinitarian element is thus represented; the Father by the chirophany (the appearance of the hand) which is symbol of the Creator and his voice. He is seen by His incarnate Son who is baptized in the Jordan by the Forerunner. The Holy Spirit, in the form of a dove, descends from the heights and rests on the head of the Son. The angels hasten to carry towels to dry the Ember who has been baptized, symbolized by the flame coming out from the water. This is particular to the Syro-Maronite tradition. The fire and the water are the image of the divinity united to humanity through the person of the incarnate Son of God in the perfection of his two natures.

Bible

"In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove on him. And a voice came from heaven, 'You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased." (Mk 1: 9-11)

John gave this testimony also: "I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water said to me, "He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain is the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit." (Jn 1: 33)

Liturgy

"The angels are amazed at seeing the straw holding the ember without burning. The heavens were torn and the Father proclaimed to his beloved One, "This is my Son, do not doubt his coming'. The Spirit in the Father's house moved with emotion, descended, flew down and rested on the Beloved One. He came in the body of a light dove who built and placed his nest in Baptism." (Boouto, Epiphany, Beit Gazo B.L. 1,167)