Today is The Feast of the Epiphany or Three Kings' Day. In Italian tradition on Epiphany Eve, La Befana, is an old woman or witch, who brings gifts and candies to the children who have been good through the year.
The story of La Befana is she was known for being the best housekeeper and hostess. The story goes the Three Wisemen stopped to ask her for directions where to find the Baby Jesus. She didn't know, but invited the Magi to rest and spend the night. In the morning, they asked her to continue the journey with them, but she said she was too busy with her housework. Later she had a change of heart gathered some gifts for the baby, grabbed her broom to help the new mother clean, and set out to look for the Magi and the Baby Jesus. She never found him and continues searching to this day. On the way, she leaves gifts and goodies to the children who have been good, but for the naughty ones she leaves
Garlic and Onions. Gee, Monet. we must have been really bad as she didn't even leave the real stuff.
The lesson is clear!
ReplyDeleteGotta do better
DeleteOh, that's a funny/interesting story. I knew about La Befana superficially, but I've never heard this story before - thank you for telling it! I think onions and garlic are always useful, even as spice powder ;-)
ReplyDeleteI wish you and everyone who is important to you (people and animals) a healthy, peaceful and happy New Year with many wonderful moments!
✨🍀🐞🍀❣️🌟❣️🍀🐞🍀✨
Best wishes, Traude
https://rostrose.blogspot.com/2025/01/ruckblick-2024-teil-1-weihnachten-und-2.html
I think there are several versions of La Befana. This is the one that I heard.
DeleteThat's a great story. It's interesting how so many European cultures have a Christmas old witch and not so much Santa like we do. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteI think they recognize it's the women that make the holiday: clean, prepare special foods, shop and wrap gifts....Santa just gets all the credit
DeleteI love this story. I have learned something new today. Thank you, CJ!
ReplyDeleteThe snow is coming down here hard and steady. Be safe!!
~ Kim
Stay safe, Kim, the storm is sliding south of us out to sea. No snow here.
DeleteGee, I don't know....garlic and onions doesn't sound so bad to me....🤣🤣🤣
ReplyDeleteI'd rather have chocolate
DeleteMany thanks for sharing this story.
ReplyDeleteAll the best Jan
😊
DeleteInteresting story and my,you two had been bad then, garlic- and onion-powder? Huh.. ;-)
ReplyDelete😈
Delete