(ማስታወቂያ)
Welcome to the vibrant and enchanting world of Ethiopian Christmas, known as Genna (ገና) in Amharic. Celebrated on January 7th, this joyous occasion brings together Ethiopian Orthodox, Eritrean Orthodox, Protestant, and Catholic communities in Ethiopia. While the rest of the world embraces the festive spirit on December 25th, Ethiopia follows its unique calendar, with Christmas falling on the 29th of Tahsas – the fourth month.
This distinctive date is not only observed in Ethiopia but also by many Orthodox churches worldwide. Rooted in the traditions of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, Ethiopian Christmas holds a special place in the hearts of the Ethiopian people. Join us as we uncover the captivating customs, the spirited hockey game, and the profound significance of Ethiopian Christmas, a celebration deeply rooted in faith and culture.
Ethiopian Christmas, known as Genna, holds deep historical and cultural significance in Ethiopia. Celebrated on January 7th (Tahsas 29 in the Ethiopian calendar), it aligns with the observances of several other Orthodox Christian Churches, including those in Russia, Greece, Eritrea, and Serbia. However, it is worth noting that Ethiopian Christmas is also celebrated by Protestant and Catholic denominations in the country, showcasing its widespread cultural impact and interfaith harmony. The origins of Ethiopian Christmas can be traced back to the adoption of Christianity in Ethiopia during the 4th century CE. The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, which has a unique liturgical tradition and is one of the oldest Christian churches in the world, plays a central role in the celebration of Genna. One distinct feature of Ethiopian Christmas is the traditional game that bears resemblance to hockey.
This game, known as Yegena Chewata (የገና ጨዋታ), is believed to have evolved from the shepherds who tended their flocks on the night Jesus was born. It is a traditional field hockey game that is widely enjoyed in the Ethiopian highlands. Played in the open spaces between villages, the game doesn't have specific boundaries. It involves two teams competing against each other, aiming to throw a wooden ball into the air and strike it with sticks. The objective is to prevent the opposing team from bringing the ball to their own village. The game derives its name from its close association with Genna, the celebration of Christmas on January 7th. It is a lively and spirited game that adds a touch of excitement to the festivities.
In Ethiopian Christmas traditions, the figure of "Yegena Abat" holds a special place. Yegena Abat, meaning "Christmas' Father" in Amharic, is a legendary character associated with the celebration. According to the tale, he was present when the shepherds played Yegenna Chawata, the traditional game similar to hockey. Yegena Abat is depicted as an elderly person wearing a sheepskin draped over his shoulders and holding a Fly whisk, a symbol of wisdom and authority. Unlike the familiar figure of Santa Claus who brings gifts, Yegena Abat takes on a different role. Instead of material presents, he imparts wise advice and guidance to the younger generation. This aspect of Yegena Abat reflects the cultural emphasis on wisdom, respect for elders, and the passing down of knowledge from one generation to the next. Yegena Abat's presence during Ethiopian Christmas serves as a reminder of the importance of wisdom, values, and life lessons that can shape the lives of young individuals. The character of Yegena Abat adds a unique and meaningful dimension to the Ethiopian Christmas celebration.
Prior to the celebration of Genna, Ethiopian Orthodox Christians observe a 43-day period of fasting known as Tsome Nebiyat or the Fast of the Prophets. This fast begins on November 25th and is considered a time of spiritual purification and preparation for the birth of Jesus Christ. During the fast, believers of the abstain from consuming any animal products, including meat, dairy, and eggs, as well as avoiding alcohol and psychoactive substances. The fast is seen as a way to cleanse the body of sin and focus on spiritual reflection and devotion, as such they also do their best to abstain from any type of sinful deed. They also dedicate most of their time to praying.
The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church places great importance on the fast and encourages its followers to engage in prayer, repentance, and acts of charity during this period. The culmination of the fast is the celebration of Genna, where the faithful come together to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ and rejoice in the fulfillment of God's promise. The historical and cultural background of Ethiopian Christmas highlights the deep-rooted connection between faith and tradition in Ethiopia. The celebration serves as a testament to the enduring influence of Christianity in the country, as well as the unique customs and practices that have evolved over centuries. Understanding the historical and cultural context of Genna enriches the appreciation of this vibrant and cherished Ethiopian holiday.
Although Ethiopian Christmas is celebrated everywhere in the country, Lalibela is the best place to celebrate the holiday and witness the beauty of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo church. The holiday attracts pilgrimages to the renowned Lalibela Churches, an extraordinary cluster of rock-hewn churches in northern Ethiopia. These UNESCO World Heritage sites hold immense religious significance within the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church.
Pilgrims visit Lalibela during Christmas to participate in special services and experience the captivating ambiance. The pilgrimage offers a chance to connect with faith, witness remarkable architecture, and explore Ethiopia's rich cultural heritage. It is a transformative experience that showcases the deep-rooted spirituality and cultural traditions of the country.
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