MERRY ETHIOPIAN CHRISTMAS!!
- fklmtours
- Jan 6, 2014
- 2 min read
Today is Tahsas(December) 28, 2006, the eve of Ethiopian Christmas.The Ethiopian name given to Christmas is Ledet or Genna (also spelt as Ganna). The name comes from the word Gennana, meaning "imminent" to express the coming of the Lord and the freeing of mankind from sin. On the eve of Genna, Ethiopians fast all day; however some believers start fasting 40 days prior to Christmas. This pensive fasting period is known as the fast of the prophets or as Tsoma Nebiat. The fast of Advent is carried out to cleanse the body and soul in preparation for the day of the birth of Christ. In Ethiopia, the day before Christmas thousands of pilgrims flock to Lalibela from all parts of the country and globe to prepare for Genna’s thanksgiving celebration, which simultaneously falls on the anniversary of the birthday of the ancient King Lalibela, who reigned in the 12th century. One of the most famous kings of Africa.King Lalibela has build over 44 churches all over Ethiopia and 11 rock hewn churches are found in Lalibela that bear the soul of Ethiopia's religious heritage. The churches are seen as one of the world’s most incredible man-made creations and are said to be a lasting monument to man’s faith in God. Pilgrims commemorate Christmas Eve by praying and chanting all night, outdoors.This is the date that Christmas was originally celebrated and still is in most Orthodox Christian traditions.Ithiopian names for Christmas are Liddet, Genna and also Qiddus Bala Wald.Genna is preceded by a fast of 40 days. There are many fast days in the Orthodox Christian Calendar. Christians fast every Wednesday and Friday all year round. On fast days Ethiopians eat only one meal in the evening. This must not contain meat or dairy foods. Sometimes fish is also avoided.Merry Ethiopian Christmas!!
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