Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Kebra Negast



In reading Kebra Negast, I realized the Ethiopian religion is rich and complex, which would also lead to a long lasting and involved culture. "The country of Ethiopia" ( a phrase mentioned several times) establishes that the setting in Ethiopia is an important factor. Because this story is so tied to Ethiopia, I think it gives them a sense of national pride but the fact that it is a religious story adds another dimension. Religion is what ties the people of Ethiopia together, a sort of common ground- although we did learn in class that there are Christians,Jews, and Muslims all calling this country home. Because that confused me, I looked up on wikipedia (!) who exactly Kebra Negast would be bringing together (because of religious beliefs). Kebra Negast "is considered by many Ethiopian Christians and Rastafarians to be an inspired and reliable account." (link to more info here
When reading the section of the Ethiopian book, Kebra Negast, I kept seeing the similarities between it and the bible ( both Jewish and Christian).  This story gives a special significance to Ethiopia because it is an important story/explanation to many different religious groups. It also gives Ethiopia a sense of great historical and religious importance because the country is present in the events that religions consider crucial. 

some interesting links:

An Ethiopian orthodox church

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