The **Ethiopian Bible** is one of the oldest and most unique Bibles, containing many secrets and historical values that transcend time. It consists of 88 books, more than the King James Bible (KJV) with only 66 books, and includes texts such as the *Book of Enoch* and the *Book of Jubilees*, which are not included in Western versions. These books provide insights into ancient Jewish thought and the development of Christian theology, helping to reveal hidden corners of the history of the faith.
**The history of Christianity in Ethiopia** dates back to the 4th century AD, when the Kingdom of Axum adopted the faith under King Ezana. Ethiopia quickly became one of the first countries in the world to officially recognize Christianity. This is evidenced by great architectural works such as the church at Lalibela, which is said to have been built by angels according to local legend, and other archaeological discoveries such as the oldest church in sub-Saharan Africa from the 4th century AD.
However, the Ethiopian Bible is not recognized by the **Roman Catholic Church**, making it a controversial subject in religious history. It is believed that Western leaders deliberately removed or edited ancient texts, in order to consolidate political and religious power. This became evident in 1611, when the KJV Bible was compiled, ignoring many of the original manuscripts from Ethiopia.
**The uniqueness of the Ethiopian Bible** lies not only in the number of books but also in the way it is presented. The texts are written in the ancient Gayesian language and are accompanied by vivid illustrations, which help to convey the story through pictures. A strikingly illustrated manuscript found in a mountaintop monastery in Ethiopia in 2010 is a testament to its long-standing cultural and religious richness.
In addition to its religious role, the **Ethiopian Bible** is the foundation of the cultural identity of its people. It has deeply influenced their art, music, and traditions, and reflects Ethiopia’s independence. As the only country in Africa that has never been colonized, Ethiopia has maintained its own identity in the practice of Christianity.
The **authority** of the Ethiopian Bible often revolves around whether the texts accurately represent the original teachings of Christ. Many scholars believe that the Bible contains stories and teachings untouched by Western politics or power, providing an alternative view of Christian history. This is further supported by the existence of ancient scrolls that predate the KJV and other Western texts.
However, the lack of official recognition of the Ethiopian Bible has made it a “forbidden secret” in the West. Its stories, illustrations, and legacy continue to be the subject of study and debate, and are key to a better understanding of the origins and development of the global Christian faith.
The Ethiopian Bible, the oldest illustrated scripture, stands out for its distinct narratives and perspectives that diverge from the canonical Bible. These differences contribute to its relative obscurity in mainstream Christian discourse. Established Christian institutions often dismiss alternative texts, adhering to the belief that the canonical Bible is complete. This has led to the Ethiopian Bible being labeled transgressive or unreliable.
One of the most significant examples is the story of the Queen of Sheba. While the canonical Bible presents her as a visitor to King Solomon’s court, Ethiopia’s sacred text, the *Kebra Nagast*, expands her narrative dramatically. According to the *Kebra Nagast*, Queen Sheba and King Solomon had a son, Menelik, who later became Ethiopia’s first emperor. Menelik is said to have brought the Ark of the Covenant to Ethiopia, intertwining Ethiopia’s history with Biblical lore. These accounts are supported by genetic research indicating that Ethiopians intermingled with people from Jerusalem around 3,000 years ago, coinciding with Queen Sheba’s reign.
The Ethiopian Bible also showcases Ethiopia’s unique Christian identity, which incorporates Jewish traditions such as dietary laws and Sabbath observance. Its oral storytelling tradition preserves the teachings and ensures cultural continuity through music and dance. These practices highlight Ethiopia’s rich and syncretic religious landscape, which contrasts with Western Christian traditions.
The marginalization of the Ethiopian Bible is tied to historical events. Early Christian councils, like those in Nicaea (325 AD) and Constantinople (381 AD), sought to standardize Christian scripture, excluding texts that did not align with prevailing beliefs or political needs. Ethiopia, which developed its Christian traditions independently, likely lacked direct connections to Jesus’s disciples, disqualifying its texts under the councils’ criteria. Later, King James’s efforts to unify scripture further excluded Ethiopian perspectives, focusing on texts that reinforced his authority and aligned with Western Christianity.
The Ethiopian Bible includes supplementary texts often viewed as pseudepigraphical, meaning their authorship and authenticity are disputed. These additional writings, while enriching Ethiopia’s religious narrative, have been dismissed by Western traditions as distortions. For example, the Bible’s striking illustrations, including a moonlight-reactive cover, and alternative interpretations of stories challenge the canonical portrayal of Christian history.
This exclusion reflects a broader tendency to marginalize narratives that do not align with dominant interpretations. Despite being the oldest known Bible and containing rich cultural and theological insights, the Ethiopian Bible is often deemed unauthorized in the West. Its stories, such as the deeper relationship between Queen Sheba and King Solomon or Ethiopia’s claim to the Ark of the Covenant, offer a fascinating but overlooked perspective on the history of Christianity.
The Ethiopian Bible ultimately challenges conventional narratives, urging us to recognize the diversity within Christianity and the shared heritage of humanity. Its stories illuminate a history of faith, culture, and exchange that transcends borders, offering valuable lessons on inclusivity and understanding.
