What is the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church and what is its significance?

The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church is the largest Oriental Orthodox Church and one of the oldest Christian communities in Africa. It traces its origins to the Christianization of the Kingdom of Aksum in 330 AD and has a substantial following within Ethiopia and the diaspora.

What does the term 'Tewahedo' mean and what theological concept does it represent?

Tewahedo is a Ge'ez word that translates to 'united as one.' It refers to the church's adherence to Miaphysitism, the belief that in Jesus Christ, the divine and human natures are united into one single, composite nature, without separation, confusion, alteration, or mixing. This Christological stance is central to Oriental Orthodox theology and distinguishes it from the dyophysite view held by other major Christian traditions.

When did Christianity become the established religion of the Kingdom of Aksum, and who was instrumental in this process?

Christianity became the established church of the Aksumite Kingdom in the 4th century under King Ezana. The Syrian Greek missionary Frumentius, known locally as 'Selama, Kesaté Birhan' (Father of Peace, Revealer of Light), is credited with bringing the priesthood and sacraments and baptizing Emperor Ezana.

What is the earliest biblical reference that suggests a connection between Ethiopia and Christianity?

The earliest biblical connection is found in the Acts of the Apostles (8:26-27), which describes Philip the Evangelist baptizing an Ethiopian eunuch, a high official of Queen Kandake of Ethiopia. This account is interpreted by some traditions as an early mission into Ethiopia.

What historical event led to the second major split within the early Christian Church, and how does the Ethiopian Church relate to it?

The Council of Chalcedon in 451 AD decreed a dyophysite (two natures) doctrine of Christology. Approximately 500 bishops from the patriarchates of Alexandria, Antioch, and Jerusalem rejected this doctrine, leading to a major schism. The Ethiopian Church, along with other Oriental Orthodox churches, adheres to the miaphysite view, thus aligning with the non-Chalcedonian position.

What is the historical relationship between the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and the Coptic Orthodox Church?

From the 4th century until 1959, the Ethiopian Orthodox Church was administratively part of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria. In 1959, it was granted autocephaly, or self-governance, with its own patriarch, by Pope Cyril VI of Alexandria.

How did the Jesuit missions influence the Ethiopian Church's relationship with the Coptic Church?

The period of Jesuit influence, beginning in the 16th century, temporarily broke the administrative connection between the Ethiopian Church and the Coptic Church in Alexandria. These missions, initiated by Portugal, aimed to bring the Ethiopian Church under the authority of the Pope in Rome, culminating in Emperor Susenyos I's submission in 1624, though this was later reversed by his successor, Fasilides.

What was Martin Luther's perspective on the Ethiopian Orthodox Church?

Martin Luther viewed the Ethiopian Orthodox Church as a legitimate ancient church with direct ties to the apostles, which validated his own reformist movement outside of Roman Catholic authority. He noted practices like communion under both kinds, vernacular scriptures, and married clergy, which aligned with his reforms, leading him to consider the Ethiopian Church a 'forerunner of Protestantism'.

What significant reforms did Emperor Haile Selassie implement within the Ethiopian Orthodox Church?

Emperor Haile Selassie promoted reforms including the distribution of an Amharic translation of the Bible and the establishment of the Theological College of the Holy Trinity Church in 1944 to improve clergy education. He also issued Decree Number 2 of 1942, which aimed to organize the church's finances, create a central fund, and standardize clergy appointment requirements.

When did the Ethiopian Orthodox Church officially achieve autocephaly, and who was its first Patriarch?

The Ethiopian Orthodox Church achieved autocephaly through an agreement with the Coptic Orthodox Church in 1948, leading to the consecration of Ethiopian bishops. This process culminated in 1959 when Pope Cyril VI of Alexandria crowned Abuna Basilios as the first Patriarch of Ethiopia.

What was the impact of the 1974 Marxist revolution on the Ethiopian Orthodox Church?

Following the overthrow of Emperor Haile Selassie in 1974, the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church was disestablished as the state church. The subsequent Marxist Derg regime nationalized church property and arrested Patriarch Tewophilos, who was secretly executed in 1979.

What led to the schism between the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and the Eritrean Orthodox Church?

The Eritrean Orthodox Tewahedo Church was granted autocephaly from the Ethiopian Orthodox Church in 1993, following Eritrea's independence. This separation, ratified by the Coptic Church, was viewed by some as a disintegration of Ethiopia's spiritual heritage, although the two churches remained in communion.

What theological concept is represented by the Ge'ez word 'Miaphysitism'?

Miaphysitism, represented by the Ge'ez word 'Tewahedo' (meaning 'united as one'), describes the belief in one unified nature of Christ, where the divine and human natures are perfectly integrated without separation or confusion. This doctrine is central to the Oriental Orthodox Churches.

What are the primary liturgical languages used by the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church?

The primary liturgical language is Ge'ez, an ancient Semitic language, which has been used since the arrival of the Nine Saints in the 5th century. Modern sermons and services are often delivered in local vernacular languages like Amharic, Oromo, and Tigrinya.

Describe the architectural styles found in Ethiopian Orthodox churches.

Ethiopian Orthodox churches exhibit diverse architectural styles, including monolithic (rock-hewn) churches, most famously at Lalibela. Other styles include basilican designs, influenced by ancient Near Eastern architecture, and native styles that are typically oblong (found in Tigray) or circular (common in Amhara and Shewa regions). Walls and ceilings are often adorned with frescoes.

What is the significance of the 'tabot' in Ethiopian Orthodox tradition?

A 'tabot' is a replica of the original Ark of the Covenant, considered sacred and housed within the church's inner sanctuary. Churches are not considered consecrated until a bishop provides a tabot, which is made of materials like alabaster, marble, or wood and is always kept covered on the altar. The tabot is carried in procession on feast days.

What similarities exist between the practices of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and those of Judaism and Islam?

Similarities include the emphasis on Old Testament teachings, the separation of men and women during worship, women covering their hair in church, and the practice of removing shoes before entering the church. The church also observes the seventh-day Sabbath (Saturday) in addition to Sunday, a practice shared with Judaism.

What is the role of a 'debtera' within the Ethiopian Orthodox Church?

A 'debtera' is a layperson trained by the church to function as a scribe or cantor, akin to minor orders. They often serve as deacons, exorcists, and folk healers, and are sometimes associated with magical practices in folklore.

What is the origin and significance of Ethiopian Orthodox Church music?

The church's music, known as 'Zema,' is attributed to Saint Yared, who composed chants divided into three modes: Ge'ez, Ezel, and Araray. This music is integral to the liturgy and is organized into fourteen Anaphoras, with the Twelve Apostles' Anaphora being the most commonly used.

What are the main fasting requirements for adherents of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church?

Fasting is a significant religious requirement, with adherents abstaining from meat and animal products, and refraining from sexual activity during designated periods. The church observes 250 fasting days annually, 180 of which are obligatory for laypeople, often involving a single vegan meal per day.

How does the Ethiopian Orthodox Church approach the practice of exorcism?

Priests perform exorcisms for individuals believed to be afflicted by demons or 'buda.' A significant percentage of Ethiopian Christians report witnessing or experiencing exorcisms, often when medical treatments fail. The ritual involves prayer, scripture reading, singing, and confronting the spirit in the name of Jesus.

What is the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church's biblical canon?

The church's biblical canon includes the standard Old and New Testament books recognized by most Christian traditions, but it also contains additional books. For the Old Testament, these include Jubilees, Enoch, and various Meqabyan books, among others. The New Testament canon includes additional synodal books and texts like Ethiopic Clement and Didascalia.

What is the significance of the 'Fast of Nineveh' in the Ethiopian Orthodox tradition?

The Fast of Nineveh commemorates the preaching of the prophet Jonah to the city of Nineveh. It is observed for three days (Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday) during the third week before the Great Lent, highlighting the theme of repentance and divine mercy.

What is the role of the 'Abuna' in the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church?

The 'Abuna' is the Patriarch and Catholicos of Ethiopia and Archbishop of Axum. This title signifies the head of the church, responsible for its spiritual and administrative leadership, and is officially known as 'Patriarch and Catholicos of Ethiopia, Archbishop of Axum and Ichege of the See of Saint Taklahaimanot'.

What are the key differences between Miaphysitism and Dyophysitism?

Miaphysitism, held by Oriental Orthodox churches like the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, asserts that in Christ, the divine and human natures are united into one single nature. Dyophysitism, held by Chalcedonian churches (Catholic and Eastern Orthodox), maintains that Christ has two distinct, unconfused, and unseparated natures, divine and human.

What is the significance of the Nine Saints in Ethiopian Christianity?

The Nine Saints are believed to have arrived in Ethiopia in the 5th century, fleeing persecution after the Council of Chalcedon. They are credited with establishing monasticism, translating scriptures into Ge'ez, and significantly shaping the early development and traditions of Ethiopian Christianity, including its liturgical practices and biblical canon.

How does the Ethiopian Orthodox Church view the Trinity?

The Ethiopian Orthodox Church is Trinitarian, adhering to the Nicene Creed's formulation that God is one in essence but exists eternally in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This concept is referred to in Ge'ez as 'səllase,' meaning 'Trinity'.

What is the practice regarding male circumcision within the Ethiopian Orthodox Church?

Male circumcision is a common cultural practice among members of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, observed from the first week of life to the first few years. However, the liturgy explicitly states that this is done as a cultural tradition, not a religious obligation, and not in imitation of Jewish law, emphasizing that faith in Christ is paramount.

What are the main types of fasting observed by the Ethiopian Orthodox Church?

The church observes several fasting periods, including the 55-day Great Lent (Abiy Tsome) before Easter, the Fast of the Apostles after Pentecost, regular fasting on Wednesdays and Fridays (except during the Easter season), the Fast of Dormition, the 40-day Advent fast before Christmas, and the Fast of Nineveh. These fasts typically involve abstaining from all animal products and refraining from sexual activity.

What role do debteras play in Ethiopian Orthodox church services?

Debteras are trained laymen who function as scribes, cantors, and sometimes deacons or exorcists. In services, they often sing hymns and perform dances, contributing to the vibrant musical and liturgical traditions of the church, particularly in the outer sections of the church during processions.

What was the outcome of the internal church conflict involving the 'illegal appointment' of bishops in early 2023?

In January 2023, an attempt to depose Patriarch Abune Mathias failed when a synod led by Abune Sawiros attempted to ordain new bishops. The Patriarchate declared this action illegal, leading to the excommunication of three archbishops. The government's involvement in mediating the dispute raised concerns about the separation of church and state.

What led to the secession of the Tigrayan Orthodox Tewahedo Church in 2021?

A group of Tigrayan priests and bishops announced their secession to form the Tigrayan Orthodox Tewahedo Church due to grievances over the main synod's perceived alignment with the federal government during the Tigray War. They accused the synod of legitimizing state violence and remaining silent on atrocities, compounded by the destruction of churches and monasteries in Tigray.

What is the significance of the Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion in Axum?

The Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion in Axum is significant because the Ethiopian Church claims it houses the original Ark of the Covenant. This sacred relic is believed to be guarded by a single priest, and its presence is central to the church's spiritual heritage and claims of continuity with ancient Israelite traditions.

How does the Ethiopian Orthodox Church observe the Sabbath?

The Ethiopian Orthodox Church observes both the seventh-day Sabbath (Saturday) and the Lord's Day (Sunday) as holy days. While both are recognized for joy and contemplation, greater emphasis is placed on Sunday due to the Resurrection of Christ. This dual observance is rooted in early Christian traditions and the church's historical ties to Jewish practices.

What is the significance of the 'Meskel' celebration?

Meskel, meaning 'cross' in Ge'ez, is a major Ethiopian Orthodox celebration commemorating the finding of the True Cross by Empress Helena. It is a vibrant festival involving processions, the lighting of a large bonfire (Demera), and religious services, symbolizing the triumph of the cross.

What is the role of the 'tabot' during church processions?

During processions, the tabot, a sacred replica of the Ark of the Covenant, is carried on the head of a priest, veiled from public view by ornate cloths and shaded by umbrellas. This solemn procession occurs on feast days and is a central part of the church's liturgical life, often involving the entire congregation.

What are the main differences in Christology between Oriental Orthodoxy and Chalcedonian Christianity?

Oriental Orthodoxy, including the Ethiopian Church, adheres to Miaphysitism, believing Christ has one unified nature composed of both divine and human elements. Chalcedonian Christianity (Catholic and Eastern Orthodox) holds to Dyophysitism, affirming two distinct, unconfused natures (divine and human) in Christ, united in one hypostasis.

What is the historical basis for the Ethiopian Church's claim to possess the Ark of the Covenant?

According to Ethiopian tradition, the Ark of the Covenant was brought to Ethiopia by Menelik I, the son of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba. It is said to be housed in a chapel within the Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion in Axum, guarded by a single consecrated bishop.

What is the significance of the 'Nine Saints' in the history of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church?

The Nine Saints, believed to have arrived from the Byzantine Empire in the 5th century, played a crucial role in establishing Christianity in Ethiopia. They are credited with translating the Bible into Ge'ez, establishing monastic traditions, and influencing the church's liturgical practices and biblical canon, contributing significantly to its distinct identity.

How does the Ethiopian Orthodox Church view the Eucharist, and who typically receives it?

The Eucharist is considered a sacred mystery, reserved for those who are spiritually pure, have fasted regularly, and have generally lived a righteous life. In practice, communion is often primarily received by young children and the elderly, with sexually active individuals generally abstaining, reflecting a strict approach to participation.

What are the key characteristics of the 'debtera'?

Debteras are educated laymen within the Ethiopian Orthodox Church who serve as scribes, cantors, and often as exorcists or folk healers. They are trained in church traditions and contribute to the church's musical and spiritual life, sometimes being associated with magical practices in popular folklore.

What is the meaning of the term 'Tewahedo' in relation to Christology?

'Tewahedo' signifies the Miaphysite belief that Jesus Christ possesses one unified nature, formed by the perfect and inseparable union of his divine and human natures. This concept emphasizes the completeness of the Incarnation for human salvation, contrasting with the 'two natures' doctrine.

What role did Frumentius play in the Christianization of Ethiopia?

Frumentius, a Syrian Greek missionary, is traditionally recognized as the first bishop of Ethiopia. He arrived in the 4th century, ministered to the Aksumite kingdom, and is credited with baptizing King Ezana, leading to Christianity becoming the established religion of the kingdom.

What are the main differences between the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church and the Ethiopian Catholic Church?

The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church is an Oriental Orthodox Church adhering to Miaphysitism and maintaining its own ancient traditions. The Ethiopian Catholic Church is an Eastern Catholic Church in communion with the Roman Catholic Church, following the Alexandrian Rite but acknowledging papal authority and adhering to Chalcedonian Christology.

Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church Wiki: Echoes of Antiquity: The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church

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The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church

Ancient Roots in Africa

The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church (EOTC) stands as one of the oldest Christian denominations in Africa, with its origins tracing back to the Christianization of the Kingdom of Aksum in 330 AD.^[7] It is the largest Oriental Orthodox Church, boasting an estimated 36 to 51 million adherents primarily within Ethiopia and its diaspora.^[3]^[4]^[5]

Oriental Orthodox Communion

The EOTC is in full communion with other Oriental Orthodox Churches, including the Eritrean Orthodox Tewahedo Church, the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria, the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, the Armenian Apostolic Church, and the Syriac Orthodox Church.^[8] This communion is rooted in a shared theological understanding, particularly concerning the nature of Christ.

The Meaning of Tewahedo

The term "Tewahedo" originates from the Ge'ez language and signifies "being made one" or "unified."^[1] This term encapsulates the church's adherence to Miaphysitism, the belief that in Jesus Christ, the divine and human natures are united into one single, composite nature, without separation or confusion.^[10] This theological stance distinguishes Oriental Orthodoxy from the Chalcedonian churches.

A Journey Through Time

Early Foundations

The church's origins are deeply intertwined with the Kingdom of Aksum. Tradition holds that Christianity was introduced by figures like Saint Matthew and Saint Bartholomew, with the pivotal moment being the conversion of King Ezana in the 4th century AD, under the guidance of Saint Frumentius.^[7] This established Christianity as the state religion, marking a significant early presence of the faith in sub-Saharan Africa.^[6]

Medieval Developments

Throughout the Middle Ages, the EOTC maintained close ties with the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria. This era also saw the rise of influential monastic movements, such as the Ewostathian and Stephanite movements, which introduced unique theological perspectives and practices, including strict Sabbath observance and critiques of imperial authority.^[23]^[34]

The relationship with the Coptic Church continued post-Arab conquest, with patriarchs sending letters and guidance. The 15th century saw significant internal theological debates and monastic reforms. The Ewostathian movement, emphasizing Sabbath observance, gained recognition, while the Stephanites challenged the veneration of the cross and imperial power, leading to periods of persecution and theological discourse.^[23]^[34]

Jesuit Interim and Reformation Echoes

The 17th century marked a period of Jesuit influence, temporarily altering the church's relationship with Alexandria. Emperor Susenyos I embraced Roman Catholicism, but his son, Fasilides, restored the EOTC as the state religion and expelled the Jesuits.^[37] Intriguingly, Martin Luther is noted to have viewed the Ethiopian Church as a precursor to Protestantism due to its practices like communion in both kinds and married clergy, and its rejection of papal supremacy.^[38]

Modern Era and Autocephaly

The 19th and 20th centuries brought significant reforms, including vernacular Bible translations and the establishment of theological education.^[42] A pivotal moment occurred in 1959 when the EOTC was granted autocephaly, establishing its own Patriarchate, separating from the Coptic Orthodox Church.^[9] The church has navigated periods of political upheaval, including disestablishment as the state church following the 1974 revolution, and has experienced internal schisms and subsequent reconciliations.^[48]

Core Beliefs: Miaphysitism

The Unified Nature of Christ

Central to the EOTC's theology is the doctrine of Miaphysitism, articulated as "Tewahedo." This belief posits that in the person of Jesus Christ, the divine and human natures are united into one single, inseparable, and unconfused nature.^[10] This understanding emphasizes the complete and natural union of the divine and human, essential for the salvation of humankind.^[12]

Distinction from Dyophysitism

This doctrine emerged from the Christological debates of the 4th and 5th centuries, particularly the teachings of Cyril of Alexandria. Miaphysitism contrasts with Dyophysitism, the belief in two distinct natures (divine and human) in Christ, which is held by the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches.^[13] The EOTC's adherence to Miaphysitism places it within the broader family of Oriental Orthodox Churches.

Miaphysitism asserts that after the Incarnation, the divine and human aspects of Christ are united in one "composite nature." This union is described as being "without separation, without confusion, without alteration." The key figure associated with this doctrine is Cyril of Alexandria, whose phrase "mia physis tou Theou logou sesarkomenē" ("one nature of the Word of God incarnate") is central. This view maintains that Christ is consubstantial with God the Father, embodying both divinity and humanity within this single, unified nature.^[10]^[11]

Rich Tapestry of Traditions

Faith and Devotion

The spiritual life of Ethiopian Orthodox Christians encompasses veneration of God, the Virgin Mary, angels, and saints. Prayers are often directed through these intercessors to God.^[83] The church's liturgical language is Ge'ez, though services and sermons are now predominantly delivered in local vernaculars like Amharic.^[95]

Fasting and Ritual Purity

Fasting is a cornerstone of Ethiopian Orthodox practice, with adherents abstaining from meat and animal products, and refraining from sexual activity on numerous designated days throughout the year.^[84]^[87] The church also observes strict rules regarding ritual purity, influencing practices like hand washing and the separation of menstruating women from entering the sanctuary.^[103]^[125]

The Ethiopian Orthodox Church observes approximately 250 fasting days annually, with 180 being obligatory for laypeople. These fasts often involve consuming only one vegan meal per day. Notable fasts include the 55-day Great Lent (Fasika), the Fast of the Apostles, Wednesdays and Fridays (except during the Easter season), the Dormition fast, and the 40-day Advent fast preceding Christmas.^[89] The Fast of Nineveh, commemorating Jonah's preaching, is also observed.^[90]

Architectural Heritage

Ethiopian Orthodox architecture is renowned for its unique styles, including the famous rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, carved directly from solid rock.^[97] Beyond these monolithic marvels, traditional churches often feature basilican or native oblong and circular designs, typically centered around a square sanctuary housing the tabot (ark replica). Walls and ceilings are frequently adorned with vibrant frescoes depicting biblical scenes.^[97]

Sacred Music and Art

The church's musical tradition, known as Zema, is attributed to Saint Yared, who composed chants divided into three modes: Ge'ez, Ezel, and Araray.^[131] This rich musical heritage, along with intricate iconography and manuscript illumination, forms a vital part of the church's spiritual expression and artistic legacy.

Sacred Scriptures

The Orthodox Tewahedo Bible

The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church utilizes a distinct biblical canon, which includes a broader collection of Old and New Testament books compared to many other Christian traditions.^[95]

The Old Testament canon includes standard books like Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy, alongside deuterocanonical and other ancient texts such as:

Jubilees
Enoch
1st & 2nd Esdras
Tobit
Judith
Esther (with additions)
1st, 2nd, & 3rd Meqabyan
Josippon
Job
Psalms (incl. Psalm 151)
Proverbs
Reproof
Ecclesiastes
Song of Solomon
Wisdom of Solomon
Ecclesiasticus
Isaiah
Jeremiah (incl. Lamentations, 1st Baruch, Letter of Jeremiah, & 4th Baruch)
Ezekiel
Daniel (with additions)
The Minor Prophets (Hosea through Malachi)

The New Testament canon includes the widely accepted books such as Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts, the Pauline Epistles, Hebrews, James, Peter, John, Jude, and Revelation. Additionally, it incorporates texts such as:

1st, 2nd, & 3rd Sinodos
1st & 2nd Covenant
Ethiopic Clement
Didascalia

Spiritual Leadership

Patriarch-Catholicos

Since gaining autocephaly in 1959, the head of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church holds the title of Patriarch-Catholicos. This supreme leader is officially known as the Patriarch and Catholicos of Ethiopia, Archbishop of Axum, and Ichege of the See of Saint Taklehaimanot.^[133] The current Patriarch is Mathias, who assumed the position in 2013.^[50]

Archbishops and Bishops

The Church's hierarchy extends globally, with Archbishops overseeing various regions and dioceses. These include significant presences in North America, South America, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and the Middle East, reflecting the church's international reach.^[134]^[135]^[136]

Key figures in the church's leadership structure include:

Patriarch: Mathias
Archbishops: Fanuel (Washington, D.C.), Petros (New York), Philipos (Pennsylvania), Yaekob (Georgia), Natnael (Minnesota), Natnael (Colorado), Selama (Ohio), Sawiros (Texas), Michael (Northern California), Barnabas (Southern California), Yosef (Europe), Lukas (Australia & New Zealand), Demetrios (Eastern Canada), Mekarios (Western Canada), Dimetros (UAE), Kewestos (Jerusalem), Thaddaeus (Caribbean & Latin America).

Diocesan Structure

Administrative Divisions

The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church is organized into numerous eparchies (dioceses), both within Ethiopia and internationally. These administrative divisions ensure the church's pastoral care and governance across its diverse membership.

The church's eparchies include:

Awassa (Sidama)
Axum
Ambo
Arsi
Assosa
Afar
Bale Gobe
Wollega
North Wollo
South Wollo (Dessie)
Gambela
West Gojjam (Bahr Dar)
East Gojjam (Debre Markos)
North Gondar
South Gondar (Debre Tabor)
Jerusalem
Illubabor
Jigjiga
Jimma
Kembata
Methara
Mizan Teferi (Kaffa)
Negele-Borena
Ogaden (Somali Region)
South Omo
Selalya
East Tigray
West Tigray
Central Tigray (Me'kele)
South Tigray
Khartoum and Nubia
Shewa (Adama)
North Shoa (Debre Berhan)
Washington, D.C. and surrounding areas
Eastern Canada
Western Canada
Trinidad and Latin America
Port-au-Prince, Haiti Caribbean Islands Area

Connections Across Faiths

Echoes of Judaism

The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church retains several practices that resonate with ancient Jewish traditions. These include the observance of the seventh-day Sabbath (Saturday) alongside the Lord's Day (Sunday), the separation of sexes in worship spaces, and specific rituals for hand washing and purification, reflecting a deep connection to Old Testament laws and customs.^[103]^[104]^[125] The claim that the Ark of the Covenant resides within the Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion in Axum is perhaps the most profound link.^[99]

Parallels with Islam

Certain practices within the EOTC also show parallels with Islamic traditions. The emphasis on ritual purity, specific dietary laws (abstaining from unclean meats), and the practice of male circumcision (though considered a cultural tradition rather than a religious obligation by the Church) are notable similarities.^[113]^[120]

Key similarities include:

Sabbath Observance: Honoring both Saturday (Jewish Sabbath) and Sunday (Christian Sabbath).
Purity Rituals: Practices like hand washing before prayer and specific purification rites.
Dietary Laws: Abstinence from certain meats deemed unclean.
Modesty: Women covering their hair during worship and separation of sexes in church.
Circumcision: A cultural practice observed by many members.
Ark of the Covenant: The church's claim to house the original Ark resonates with the reverence for sacred relics in Abrahamic faiths.

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References

"Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church", World Council of Churches website (accessed 2 June 2009)

Socrates of Constantinople, Sozomen, Theodoret. Historia Ecclesiastica. p. 57.

Getatchew Haile, âThe Monastic Reform of Abba Ewostatewos,â Journal of Ethiopian Studies, vol. 8, no. 1, 1970, pp. 29â50.

Taddesse Tamrat, Church and State in Ethiopia, 1270â1527 (Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1972), pp. 209â232.

Paolo Marrassini, âEwostatewos,â in Siegbert Uhlig (ed.), Encyclopaedia Aethiopica, vol. 2 (Wiesbaden: Harrassowitz, 2005), pp. 429â431.

Steven Kaplan, The Monastic Holy Man and the Christianization of Early Solomonic Ethiopia (Wiesbaden: Franz Steiner Verlag, 1984), pp. 98â103.

Getatchew Haile, âThe Ethiopian Church and Its Leadership: The Struggle for Independence,â Church History, vol. 44, no. 3, 1975, pp. 283â297.

Bairu Tafla, âEstifanos, Abba,â in Siegbert Uhlig (ed.), Encyclopaedia Aethiopica, vol. 2 (Wiesbaden: Harrassowitz, 2005), pp. 392â393.

Habtemichael Kidane, âThe Stephanite Movement and Its Theological Significance,â Aethiopica 13 (2010): 157â176.

Getatchew Haile, âThe Acts of Abba Estifanos of Gwendagwende: The Struggle for Faith and Freedom in Fifteenth Century Ethiopia,â Analecta Bollandiana 93 (1975): 333â368.

Steven Kaplan, The Monastic Holy Man and the Christianization of Early Solomonic Ethiopia (Wiesbaden: Franz Steiner Verlag, 1984), pp. 113â128.

Girma Getahun, âAbba Estifanos and the Stephanites: Resistance to Imperial Power in Fifteenth-Century Ethiopia,â Journal of Religion in Africa 27, no. 4 (1997): 403â425.

Getatchew Haile, âThe Persecution of Abba Estifanos and His Disciples,â Analecta Bollandiana 94 (1976): 311â345.

Edward Ullendorff, Ethiopia and the Bible (Oxford: British Academy, 1988), p. 66

Margary Perham, The Government of Ethiopia, second edition (London: Faber and Faber, 1969), pp. 121f

Giulia Paravicini, âTigrayan Orthodox Church breaks away from Ethiopiaâs main synod,â Reuters, 9 May 2023.

Shira Rubin, âDivisions in Ethiopiaâs ancient church pose new threat to stability,â The Washington Post, 12 Apr. 2023.

âEthiopia: Nationalism tears Orthodox Church apart,â The Africa Report, 14â¯Febâ¯2024.

âTigrayan Orthodox Church breaks away from Ethiopiaâs main synod,â Reuters, 9â¯Mayâ¯2023.

âThe Tigray war and the schism in the Ethiopian Orthodox church,â Geeska, 8â¯Decâ¯2024.

âThe cause and context of the crisis of schism in the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church (EOTC),â Religion Unplugged, 4â¯Febâ¯2023.

âWar crimes and rebel bishops: Christmas celebrations marred by bitter split in Ethiopiaâs ancient church,â The Guardian, 6â¯Janâ¯2025.

Amnesty International, âEritrean troops massacre of hundreds of Axum civilians may amount to a crime against humanity,â 26 Feb. 2021.

Human Rights Watch & Amnesty International, ââWe Will Erase You from This Landâ: Crimes Against Humanity and Ethnic Cleansing in Ethiopiaâs Western Tigray Zone,â 6 Apr. 2022.

Martin Plaut, âMonastery âbombed and lootedâ in Ethiopian war (Debre Damo),â The Times via Eritrea Hub, 15 Feb. 2021.

Jason Burke, âFabled Ark could be among ancient treasures in danger in Ethiopiaâs deadly war,â The Guardian, 24 Jan. 2021.

African Arguments, âTigray: why are soldiers attacking religious heritage sites?â 11 Mar. 2021.

The Guardian, âTigray conflict: Eritrean soldiers accused of looting and massacres,â 5 Mar. 2021.

Giulia Paravicini, âEthiopian Orthodox Church head says genocide is taking place in Tigray,â Reuters, 9 May 2021.

Voice of America, âEthiopian Orthodox Patriarch Blasts âGenocideâ in Tigray,â 9 May 2021.

Shira Rubin, âDivisions in Ethiopiaâs ancient church pose new threat to stability,â The Washington Post, 12 Apr. 2023.

Taddesse Tamrat, Church and State in Ethiopia, 1270-1527 (Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1972), p. 23

Eparchies of the Ethiopian Church (Russian)

A full list of references for this article are available at the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church Wikipedia page

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Echoes of Antiquity

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The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church ✝️

🌍 Ancient Roots in Africa

🤝 Oriental Orthodox Communion

🗣️ The Meaning of Tewahedo

A Journey Through Time ⏳

🏛️ Early Foundations

📜 Medieval Developments

⚔️ Jesuit Interim and Reformation Echoes

📅 Modern Era and Autocephaly

Core Beliefs: Miaphysitism 🧠

✨ The Unified Nature of Christ

⚖️ Distinction from Dyophysitism

Rich Tapestry of Traditions 🌿

🙏 Faith and Devotion

🗓️ Fasting and Ritual Purity

🏛️ Architectural Heritage

🎶 Sacred Music and Art

Sacred Scriptures 📖

📜 The Orthodox Tewahedo Bible

Spiritual Leadership 👑

👑 Patriarch-Catholicos

🗺️ Archbishops and Bishops

Diocesan Structure 📍

🗺️ Administrative Divisions

Connections Across Faiths 🤝

✡️ Echoes of Judaism

☪️ Parallels with Islam

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church

Ancient Roots in Africa

Oriental Orthodox Communion

The Meaning of Tewahedo

A Journey Through Time

Early Foundations

Medieval Developments

Jesuit Interim and Reformation Echoes

Modern Era and Autocephaly

Core Beliefs: Miaphysitism

The Unified Nature of Christ

Distinction from Dyophysitism

Rich Tapestry of Traditions

Faith and Devotion

Fasting and Ritual Purity

Architectural Heritage

Sacred Music and Art

Sacred Scriptures

The Orthodox Tewahedo Bible

Spiritual Leadership

Patriarch-Catholicos

Archbishops and Bishops

Diocesan Structure

Administrative Divisions

Connections Across Faiths

Echoes of Judaism

Parallels with Islam

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice