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One of the oldest nations, Ethiopia’s cultural heritage is an important part of world history, its civilization, language, and customs are crucial to be preserved. Its diverse ethnic groups with different traditions and beliefs are what makes Ethiopia. Festivals such as Timkat and Meskel, and architectural marvels like the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, are manifestations of this heritage. In the modern world of rapid globalization, Ethiopia's culture runs the risk of being forgotten, making it very important to document and share its culture on digital platforms for future generations to know and appreciate.

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Doro wat can be considered the national dish of Ethiopia. It is a spicy stew made out of any kind of meat, but the most used is chicken and beef. One of the main factors why it is special is due to it’s way of making it. The preparation of Doro wat consists of chopped onions cooked in a pan without any fat or oil, Then fat is added, and the onions become sautéed, later on, the other ingredients are added. Doro wat can be found in most Ethiopian restaurants because it is popular, but initially, it would be eaten on special occasions.

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Ergo is a traditional Ethiopian fermented milk product, very similar to the well-known yogurt. It has a semi-solid consistency, is smooth, and is white. The fermentation process includes using traditional utensils and natural acid bacteria.

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Ayib, in other words, cottage cheese, is made by heating buttermilk in an iron or clay pot, until it has clumps and forms a mass. After cooling the newly made curd is put in a mesh cloth to squeeze the remaining juice out.

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It is an Ethiopian flatbread. It is eaten with stews such as Doro wat or other saucy dishes. It has a spongy texture and small holes (pores) which are perfect for scooping up the sauce. It is used as an eating utensil, where people take a piece with their fingers and dip it in. It is different from other flatbreads due to its texture and ingredients. (One main ingredient is teff, which no other flatbreads use)

Recipie to make Injera: https://www.daringgourmet.com/authentic-injera-ethiopian-flatbread/

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This is the national drink of Ethiopia. Tej is also known as honey wine, similar to mead, Tej however is made from “Gesho” which isn’t found in any other meads, which is what makes it special. It is believed to have originated more than 3000 years ago and it was one of the first ever alcoholic beverages.

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Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee, with the Arabica cherries growing there. The country has a strong historical connection to coffee with stories such as the legend of Kaldi and much more. There are Ethiopian coffee ceremonies, and coffee symbolizes hospitality and unity, for example, when coming to an Ethiopian household, they will serve you coffee to make one feel welcome. Due to coffee coming from Ethiopia, it boosted the economy very well, supporting many families.

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Amharic is the government language of Ethiopia and is primarily spoken in the northern and central parts of the country. It is slowly being spoken less and less, due to Ormo's dominance. Around 29% of people speak it.

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Oromo has now become the dominant language in Ethiopia. It is a little bit over 33% of people that speak it. Oromo is spoken in the country's western, southwestern, southern, and eastern areas. It is also a Cushitic language, meaning a division of the Afro-Asiatic phylum (Brittanica)

To listen to how Oromo languages is spoken, visit this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PSP3Ng1copA

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Oromo Language Video with English Subtitles, Center for African Studies UC Berkeley

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Ge’ez once was the primate language of Ethiopia, however, it has had a significant decline due to its limited use. Nowadays, Ge’ez is the liturgical language of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church (it was also before), it is no longer spoken as a native language, it is restricted to mainly being used in religious ceremonies.

Ge'ez holds huge historical and cultural importance as one of the oldest written languages in Africa, preserving sacred texts, and literature.

To learn more about the Ge'ez Manuscripts visit this website below: https://fisherdigitus.library.utoronto.ca/exhibits/show/blackhistory/earlyprintandmanuscripts/manuscripts

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Ge’ez Manuscripts · Celebrating Black Voices: Black History Resources at the Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library · Digitus - Online Exhibitions from the Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library

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The Habesha Kemis is a traditional Ethiopian dress worn by women. The dress is mostly worn at special occasions and gatherings such as weddings, religious celebrations, and festivals. It is made from handwoven cotton called shemma, which is lightweight and breathable, which is ideal for the region. The dress features intricate, colorful embroidery along the hems, cuffs, and neckline, showcasing patterns that vary by region and cultural significance.

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Netela is the traditional Ethiopian shawl made for women. It is mostly draped around the shoulder or head when going to church, or special events (not needed to wear every day). It is also made out of lightweight material and the edge of the Netela, it has a decorative border called Tibeb, which has vibrant and colorful patterns on there ( different in different regions).

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The kuta is a white scarf worn by men, it has very minimal decorated patterns. It is usually worn over the shoulder or wrapped around the body and is a common sight at religious occasions, weddings, and cultural gatherings. It is a sign of respect and one's cultural identity, generally worn along with other traditional attire, including the jano (trousers) and a shirt.

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Zuria is a formal dress, worn by women at special gatherings. It is made of fine, handwoven cotton fabric, which reaches down to the ankles and reflects elegance and grace. It usually contains intricate embroidery called Tibeb (also on the woman's scarfs), along the neckline, sleeves, and hemline, displaying different patterns and colors according to the region. The zuria is a symbol of cultural pride and femininity, blending tradition with fashion.

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Traditional Dorze houses are beehive-shaped houses that were made by the Dorze ethnic people of south Ethiopia. The Dorze house is made of bamboo and leaves from enset or false banana, these houses not only are very eco-friendly but highly durable, due to the ability to stand strong for a period extending as far as 80 years. This towering design, mostly above 6 meters, allows the house to be gradually shortened from the base in case termite damage occurs. Dorze houses are made by adapting to the environment in Ethiopia.

In the video below, a influencer introduces Dorze houses and it's materials and interior: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LbiuQpB3e1w

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Tigray flat-roofed stone houses are traditional houses found in northern Ethiopia. Constructed from stone and mud, these houses are characterized by their sturdy, rectangular design and flat roofs, which are often used for drying crops or as additional living space. The thick stone walls provide perfect insulation, by keeping the inside cool during the day, and warm during the night. This is ideal for the region's climate

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Ghiorgis or St. George is one of the most famous rock-hewn churches in Lalibela, Ethiopia, not only for its famous architecture but also for its spiritual and cultural significance. The architecture of this entire house carved into the shape of a cross from a single volcanic rock dates back to the 12th or 13th century during the reign of King Lalibela. This is a monolithic masterpiece that stands to tell about the originality and devotion of its creators, with intricate carvings and a design joining functionality to symbolism. Biete Ghiorgis remains a center of Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, drawing in visitors from around the world for both historical and religious importance.

The historical importance: The construction of Biete Ghiorgis happened in the Zagwe dynasty, which is considered extraordinary, due to Ethiopia showing their advancement in engineering and artistry. It also reflects and stands as a symbol of Ethiopia's enduring Christian heritage.

The Religious importance: This church is dedicated to St. George, the patron saint of Ethiopia, the church continues to serve as a place of worship and pilgrimage. During celebrations such as Genna (Ethiopian Christmas), it becomes even more spiritually significant and becomes a focal point for devotion.

See link to get a better view of the church: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1-554w5uLJh4PinYhm9ekx67By6w0qGKlZJnjFmUtF58/edit?usp=drive_link

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Biete Abba Libanos is one of the renowned rock-hewn churches in Lalibela, Ethiopia. Carved into the face of a cliff, it is semi-monolithic, with its roof remaining attached to the surrounding rock, showcasing a blend of nature and human craft. Tradition attributes its creation to King Lalibela and his wife, Queen Maskal Kebra, symbolizing their devotion. The church is dedicated to Abba Libanos, a revered Ethiopian saint, and serves as a place of worship and pilgrimage. With its intricate carvings and serene setting, Biete Abba Libanos is a testament to Ethiopia's rich religion and culture

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The Shimagelay ceremony takes place during the morning of the wedding. The groom's family sends their elders to ask the bride's family for her hand in marriage. They first state his background and qualities, trying to convince the family he would be a great husband to the bride. It’s tradition for the bride's family to resist at first, but the resisting is more of a playful manner, and it’s not taken seriously. After this, the bride and groom's family has breakfast together and hed off to the wedding.

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"Mshiraye" is one of the most famous wedding songs in Amharic, with much joy and emotion. Most of the songs played have a theme of love, happiness, and blessings towards the newlywed, reflecting on that very special day. With the strong rhythmic beats of “Mshiraye” (meaning my dear or beloved in English) the guests can dance to the tune, creating a lively atmosphere. Traditionally performed during the wedding procession or at the reception, this song is considered the union of two families, marking the beginning of life together.

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Melse is celebrated the day after the wedding, inviting only close friends and family. It is usually hosted by the bride's side of the family. Both the bride and groom traditional habesha clothes. During this small ceremony, the bride and groom receive blessings or sometimes gifts. During the event, there is music, dancing, and feasting, with traditional dishes like doro wat (spicy chicken stew) and injera (flatbread) being served.

To look at how a typical wedding goes visit this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ze9B41_klww

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Luxury Ethiopian Wedding at the Sheraton Addis, Ethiopia | Bez & Samora (4K) SDE

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In Ethiopia, the coffee ceremony is a very important and highly valued tradition of the culture; it reflects hospitality, respect, and the tightness of the community. It becomes an indispensable part of any gathering, whether ordinary family or friendly gatherings. The process starts by roasting green coffee beans over an open flame until a rich aroma fills the air. These beans are then ground and brewed in a special pot called the jebena. It is prepared in small cups, usually with incense and sometimes with traditional snacks. The process is slow and deliberate to foster conversation, connection, and understanding among participants and the whole historical background.

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the myth of Waq is embedded in all of African history. To a greater degree, Waq has been understood as a supreme god, mainly associated with creation, nature, and protection. In other versions, Waq is looked at as a god who runs the universe, giving nourishment and putting order into the world. By the same mythical tradition, Waq is supposed to have originated life, since he is the reason for the land to be fertile and people to prosper. In some other variations of the myth, Waq is depicted as a far, transcendental entity, while others believe that Waq has been present among them through ritual and prayer. Waq is representative of the spiritual bond of the communities with nature and their perception of a divine force shaping their lives.

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The story of Queen Sheba, whom Ethiopians know as Makeda, is one of the most well-known and important legends within both Ethiopian and Biblical traditions. Queen Sheba is a ruler of a prosperous and powerful kingdom, said to be found in either modern-day Ethiopia or Yemen. Probably the most famous tale surrounding her is the visit to King Solomon of Israel, in which she brought lavish gifts to test his wisdom. Impressed by his knowledge and the wealth of his kingdom, Queen Sheba is said to have had a son with Solomon, named Menelik I, who later became the first emperor of Ethiopia, establishing the Solomonic dynasty.

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Rastafarianism is the religious and cultural movement from Jamaica, starting in the 1930s, finding roots in the belief that Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia (ironically his own people threw him off the throne) was the earthly manifestation of God, or "Jah." It is a combination of Christianity with Afrocentric pride, mixed with profound respect for the heritage and history of Ethiopia. They also believe in the eventual return of African people to their ancestral home, Ethiopia being considered the Promised Land. They believe in the need for social justice, equality, and the denial of oppressive systems. The movement strongly puts forth peace, unity, and harmonious living with nature.

PDF of Bob Marley and his connection to Rastafarianism:

https://www.canva.com/design/DAGbw5AJTFQ/_RVAww0t2cwjPupIF1Wrfg/view?utm_content=DAGbw5AJTFQ&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=hbf84b587f7

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Qenet is a type of traditional Ethiopian music mainly connected with the religious aspects, especially within the practices of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. It features a unique system of modal scales and complex rhythms, deeply rooted in the liturgical traditions and ancient chants of the church. Qenet music is soulful and haunting, usually sung in a call-and-response manner with instrumentation like the krar, a type of lyre, and the masinko, a one-stringed fiddle. Overall the music can be described as very meditative, which facilitates communication between god and the worshippers.

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Timkat (also known as Epiphany) is one of the most important Christian festivals in Ethiopia. It is celebrated on January 19 (January 20 in a leap year). It is a tribute to the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River and is a vibrant display of Ethiopian Orthodox Christian faith and tradition. The celebration begins with a procession of tabots (sacred replicas of the Ark of the Covenant) from churches to nearby water sources, accompanied by singing, dancing, and the beating of drums. The highlight is the reenactment of Christ's baptism, where priests bless the water and sprinkle it on the gathered crowd, symbolizing spiritual renewal.

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Enkutatash, which means "gift of jewels," is the Ethiopian New Year, on September 11 (September 12 in a leap year). It is the day that marks the end of the rainy season and the beginning of spring, symbolized by blooming yellow adey abeba flowers. Laced with both cultural and religious threads, Enkutatash is said to be connected with the return of the Queen of Sheba after visiting King Solomon, whereupon her people welcomed her by showering her with jewels. The holidays include church services, traditional songs, dancing, and family meetings. Kids normally go from house to house singing and giving out drawings of flowers, receiving gifts in return.

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Fasika, or Ethiopian Easter, is the marking of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It follows a 55-day period of fasting known as Hudade or Lent, during which believers abstain from animal products and engage in prayer and spiritual reflection. Fasika is celebrated with a midnight church service that lasts into the early hours of Easter Sunday, filled with hymns and rituals in the Ethiopian Orthodox Christian tradition. After the service, families break their fast with a grand feast featuring traditional dishes.

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Eid al-Adha, also referred to as the Feast of Sacrifice, is one of the two major holidays that Muslims celebrate worldwide. It is a commemoration of the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his only son upon the command of Allah and how it became a test of faith when Allah provided a ram instead. The holiday involves a special prayer at the mosque after sunrise, followed by the sacrifice of an animal typically a sheep, goat, or cow. The meat is shared with family and friends in the community and distributed to poor families; such acts of generosity and sharing are all part of community life.

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The Battle of Adwa in 1896 was an important historical moment in Ethiopian and African history, where Emperor Menelik II led Ethiopia to victory against Italian forces attempting to colonize the nation. The war started due to the new version of the Treaty of Wichale (1889), where Italians altered the treaty into their version to claim that Ethiopia was from then on a territory under Italian control. Menelik II rejected the treaty, condemning Italy's manipulation. Italy's attempts to bribe Menelik and support rival factions failed to lead to direct military confrontation.

Italy then underestimating Ethiopia, launched a poorly planned attack in Adwa. Harsh terrain and lack of intelligence and organization led to the complete failure of Italy's attack and victory for Ethiopia. Instead of chasing further territorial gains after his victory, Menelik II brought peace through diplomatic means and established the sovereignty of Ethiopia.

The Victory of Adwa is celebrated in powerful paintings that depict Ethiopian warriors, adorned in traditional attire, courageously confronting invading forces amidst the mountainous terrain. These artworks celebrate Ethiopia's resilience and unity in defending its nation and serve as enduring symbols of anti-colonial resistance and African pride, inspiring movements across the continent and the world.

For different variations of the painting and biography of Emperor Menelik II click here to see:

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1Fgg9Y1tfSEhMeZSC0P3entd63RSND_4w/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=111095640977926866037&rtpof=true&sd=true