History of Christmas
On what date do Coptic Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas?
January 7
In which town was Jesus Christ born?
Bethlehem
What is the Coptic month dedicated to praises before Christmas?
Kiahk
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The Virgin Mary
What color vestments are worn during the Coptic Orthodox Christmas Liturgy?
White
Why is Coptic Christmas celebrated on January 7 instead of December 25?
Because the Coptic Church follows the Julian calendar
Who appeared to the shepherds to announce Christ’s birth?
An angel of the Lord
What special midnight service is prayed throughout Kiahk?
Kiahk Praises (Tasbeha)
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Baby Jesus
Which Divine Liturgy is most commonly prayed on Christmas in the Coptic Orthodox Church?
The Liturgy of St. Basil
How long is the Nativity Fast before Christmas in the Coptic Orthodox Church?
43 days
What gifts did the Magi bring to the Christ Child?
Gold, frankincense, and myrrh
Which hymn repeatedly glorifies St. Mary during Kiahk?
Theotokia
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The Three Magi (Wise Men)
What is the name of the special Christmas hymn chanted during the Distribution of Communion?
“Je Efmev-e” (Ⲓⲉ Ⲉϥⲙⲉⲃⲉ)
What historical event added 3 extra days to the Nativity Fast?
The miracle of moving Mokattam Mountain during Pope Abraham Ibn Zaraa’s time
Which Old Testament prophet foretold that the Messiah would be born of a virgin?
Isaiah
What does the word “Kiahk” mean?
Union / joining (symbolizing Christ uniting divinity and humanity)
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Saint Joseph the Carpenter
During the Christmas Liturgy, which Gospel is traditionally read in the Divine Liturgy?
The Gospel of Luke (Luke 2:1–20)
Which Ecumenical Council affirmed the Church’s teaching on Christ’s full divinity and humanity, central to the meaning of Christmas?
The Council of Ephesus (431 AD)
According to Coptic tradition, why was Christ born in a manger rather than a house?
To show humility and that He came for all, especially the poor and lowly
Which Kiahk hymn includes the phrase “The Lord looked from heaven and found none like You”?
The Kiahk Adam Theotokia
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Balaam (the prophet who foretold the Star from Jacob)
What phrase is added to the Fraction during the Christmas Liturgy to emphasize the Incarnation?
“He took what is ours and gave us what is His”