Topical Encyclopedia Epiphi is the eleventh month of the ancient Egyptian calendar and corresponds roughly to the period from mid-July to mid-August in the Gregorian calendar. This month is significant in the context of biblical history and the cultural backdrop of Egypt, which plays a crucial role in several biblical narratives.Historical and Cultural Context In the ancient Egyptian calendar, Epiphi was part of the season known as "Shemu," which was the harvest season. This period was marked by the receding of the Nile floodwaters, allowing for the harvest of crops. The agricultural cycle of Egypt, including the month of Epiphi, was vital for the sustenance of the Egyptian civilization and is often alluded to in the Bible, particularly in the context of the Israelites' time in Egypt. Biblical Significance While the Bible does not explicitly mention the month of Epiphi by name, understanding the Egyptian calendar provides insight into the timing of events described in the Scriptures. For instance, the plagues of Egypt, as recounted in the Book of Exodus, would have had profound implications on the agricultural cycles, including the month of Epiphi. The plagues disrupted the natural order and the harvest, which would have been particularly devastating during this time. Exodus and the Egyptian Calendar The account of the Exodus, where Moses leads the Israelites out of Egypt, is deeply intertwined with the Egyptian way of life, including its calendar. The timing of the plagues and the eventual departure of the Israelites can be better understood when considering the agricultural and seasonal context of Egypt. The plagues, which culminated in the Passover and the Exodus, would have occurred against the backdrop of the Egyptian calendar, affecting months like Epiphi. Theological Reflections From a theological perspective, the events associated with the Egyptian calendar, including Epiphi, underscore the sovereignty of God over nature and human affairs. The plagues demonstrated God's power over the Egyptian gods and the natural order, challenging the very foundation of Egyptian society, which relied heavily on the predictability of the Nile and the agricultural calendar. Connection to the New Testament While the New Testament does not directly reference the Egyptian calendar, the themes of deliverance and God's provision, which are highlighted in the context of the Exodus and the agricultural cycles of Egypt, resonate throughout the New Testament. The deliverance from Egypt is a foreshadowing of the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ, who provides spiritual sustenance and salvation. Conclusion Understanding the month of Epiphi within the Egyptian calendar enriches the study of biblical events, particularly those related to the Exodus. It provides a backdrop for the miraculous interventions of God in history and highlights the continuity of God's redemptive plan from the Old Testament to the New Testament. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia EPIPHIep'-i-fi (Epiphi): Library The Historia Acephala. Index. General Chronological Table of the Life of S. Athanasius. B. --The Festal Letters, and their Index, The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty --(Continued) The Reaction against Egypt The Iranian Conquest Thesaurus Epiphi... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia EPIPHI. ep'-i-fi (Epiphi): Name of a month mentioned in connection with Pachon in APC 1Macc 6:38. See TIME. ... /e/epiphi.htm - 6k Migdol (6 Occurrences) Epiphanes Epistle (13 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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