Merry Timket

Timket (which means baptism or Epiphany in Amharic) is another religious holiday in Ethiopia.  It is the most important orthodox Christian holiday of the year.  Although the holiday is meant to commemorate the baptism of Jesus in the River Jorden, it also seems to be a holiday to celebrate the Ark of the Covenant being in Ethiopia.

The Ark is thought to have been kidnapped from Jerusalem and brought to Ethiopia quite some time ago.  It is said to be guarded by a single priest in a church in Axum.  Strangely, no one but this priest is able to see the Ark, so I guess we just have to take his word for it.  There is some sort of process to replace the current priest/guard should he be called up for higher celestial duties.

Believe it or not, the Ark also has magical abilities and has the power to emit enough energy to sweep away enemies and any innocent bystanders.   This is why it obviously needs to stay locked up, hidden away from the rest of the world.

 

All churches have a replica of the Ark, and Timket is a big colourful parade of priests carrying beautiful umbrellas and replicas of the Ark covered with silk.

Thursday is the Muslim holiday of Maulid, celebrating the birth of the Islamic prophet Muhammad.   It’s nice to be living in a country that is so inclusive of all beliefs (as we get lots of holidays!).

Parade going by the Canadian Embassy

Happy Timket and Maulid to everyone!