Introduction

Ethiopian New Year is celebrated on 11th September and is known as Enkutatash in Amharic. The Ethiopian calendar is based on the ancient Coptic calendar, which is 7-8 years behind the Western Gregorian calendar. Therefore, the Ethiopian year 2014 is equivalent to 2023-2024 in the Gregorian calendar. This article will explore the history, traditions, and celebrations of Ethiopian New Year 2014.

History

The Ethiopian calendar has 13 months, with 12 months consisting of 30 days each and the final month consisting of 5 or 6 days. The calendar is based on the Julian calendar, which was introduced by Julius Caesar in 45 BC. The Ethiopian Orthodox Church played a significant role in the adoption of the Julian calendar in Ethiopia in the 4th century AD. The Ethiopian New Year marks the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the harvest season.

Traditions

Enkutatash is a time for family gatherings, feasting, and gift-giving. It is customary for people to exchange bouquets of yellow flowers called Adey Abeba, which symbolizes the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the New Year. People also wear new clothes and sprinkle fresh grass and flowers in their homes and on the streets to welcome the New Year. The traditional Ethiopian dish, Doro Wat, is also served during Enkutatash.

Celebrations

The New Year is celebrated with colorful processions, music, and dancing. The largest celebration takes place in the capital city, Addis Ababa, where thousands of people gather in Meskel Square to watch the festivities. The Tigray region also has a unique celebration called Hagere Selam, which involves a ceremonial burning of torches.

Question and Answer

Q: How is Ethiopian New Year different from other New Year celebrations?

A: Ethiopian New Year is based on the ancient Coptic calendar, which is different from the Western Gregorian calendar. It is also celebrated at a different time of the year, on 11th September.

Q: What is the significance of Adey Abeba?

A: Adey Abeba is a bouquet of yellow flowers that symbolizes the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the harvest season. It is exchanged as a gift during Enkutatash.

Conclusion

Ethiopian New Year 2014 is a time for new beginnings and celebrations. It is a time to reflect on the past and look forward to the future. The traditions and festivities of Enkutatash are deeply rooted in Ethiopian culture and history. As the world becomes more interconnected, it is important to celebrate and appreciate the diversity of cultures and traditions around the world.