Ethiopian Tsom Calendar 2024
As an Ethiopian, I have always been fascinated by the rich and diverse culture of my country. One of the most important aspects of Ethiopian culture is the Tsom calendar, which is a fasting calendar followed by Ethiopian Orthodox Christians. In this article, I will provide a guide to the Ethiopian Tsom calendar for the year 2024, including a list of events and festivals, as well as some personal insights and FAQs.
What is the Ethiopian Tsom Calendar?
The Ethiopian Tsom calendar is a fasting calendar that is followed by members of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. The calendar consists of several periods of fasting throughout the year, during which believers abstain from certain foods and engage in prayer and meditation. The Tsom calendar is based on the Julian calendar, which is 7-8 years behind the Gregorian calendar used in the Western world.
What are the different periods of fasting?
The Ethiopian Tsom calendar consists of several periods of fasting throughout the year. The major fasting periods are:
- Tsome Filseta (August 7 – September 10)
- Tsome Tewahedo (November 15 – December 28)
- Tsome Arba (February 10 – April 19)
In addition to these major fasting periods, there are also several minor fasting periods throughout the year, including:
- Tsome Hawariyat (the Fast of the Apostles)
- Tsome Daoud (the Fast of David)
- Tsome Qudade (the Fast of Nineveh)
Events and Festivals in Ethiopian Tsom Calendar 2024
Here is a list of some of the major events and festivals that will be celebrated in the Ethiopian Tsom calendar in 2024:
- Timkat (January 19)
- Fasika (April 28)
- Hidar Zion (November 19)
- Masqal (September 27)
- Genna (January 7)
What is Timkat?
Timkat is a major festival in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church that celebrates the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River. The festival is celebrated on January 19 and involves colorful processions, music, and dancing. During the festival, water is blessed and sprinkled on the participants as a symbol of renewal and purification.
What is Fasika?
Fasika, also known as Ethiopian Easter, is one of the most important festivals in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. The festival is celebrated on April 28 and marks the end of the fasting period of Lent. Fasika is celebrated with feasting, music, and dancing.
What is Hidar Zion?
Hidar Zion is a celebration of the discovery of the True Cross by Empress Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine. The festival is celebrated on November 19 and involves processions, music, and dancing.
What is Masqal?
Masqal is a celebration of the finding of the True Cross by Empress Helena. The festival is celebrated on September 27 and involves processions, music, and dancing.
What is Genna?
Genna, also known as Ethiopian Christmas, is celebrated on January 7 and marks the birth of Jesus Christ. The festival is celebrated with feasting, music, and dancing.
Question and Answer: FAQs about Ethiopian Tsom Calendar 2024
Q: What foods are forbidden during the fasting periods?
A: During the major fasting periods, believers abstain from all animal products, including meat, dairy, and eggs. They also avoid alcohol and engage in prayer and meditation.
Q: How do people prepare for the fasting periods?
A: People usually prepare for the fasting periods by going to confession, attending church services, and engaging in prayer and meditation. They also typically eat a lot of vegetarian dishes in the days leading up to the fasting period.
Q: Can non-believers participate in the festivals?
A: Yes, non-believers are welcome to participate in the festivals and celebrations. However, it is important to respect the traditions and customs of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church.
Q: Where can I learn more about the Ethiopian Tsom calendar?
A: You can learn more about the Ethiopian Tsom calendar by visiting an Ethiopian Orthodox Church or by speaking to members of the Ethiopian community. There are also many resources available online, including books and articles.
In conclusion, the Ethiopian Tsom calendar is an important aspect of Ethiopian culture, and the festivals and celebrations that are associated with it are a testament to the rich history and traditions of the Ethiopian people. Whether you are a believer or a non-believer, participating in these festivals is a great way to experience the beauty and diversity of Ethiopian culture.