Ge’ez is one of the oldest known written languages in Africa, with deep roots in Tigrai. Originally used in everyday life and administration, it evolved into a sacred language used by the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and remains essential in liturgy and scholarship.
Key Points:
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Ge’ez inscriptions on stelae and stone tablets date back over 2,000 years.
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The language reflects Tigrai’s connections with Hebrew, Arabic, and South Semitic scripts.
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Ge’ez manuscripts preserve biblical texts, hymns, medical knowledge, and astronomy.
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Learning Ge’ez is part of clergy education in monasteries across Tigrai.
Why It Matters:
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It’s a linguistic treasure that connects modern Ethiopians to their ancient identity.
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Preserving Ge’ez helps conserve theological, philosophical, and cultural thought.
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Scholars around the world study Ge’ez to understand African contributions to early civilization.
