Antiquity and Uniqueness

The Ethiopian Bible, used by the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, is considered the oldest and most complete version still in use. With 81 books, it preserves texts that disappeared in other Christian traditions. Its antiquity reflects the strength of Ethiopian faith, which dates back to the 4th century when Christianity was officially adopted in the country.

The Secrets of the Ethiopian Bible

• Unique extension: while the Catholic Bible has 73 books and the Protestant Bible 66, the Ethiopian Bible contains 81.
• Additional books: it includes the Book of Enoch, the Book of Jubilees, 3 Maccabees, and other texts that expand the vision of angels, creation, and human history.
• Preserved memory: it shows how ancient Christian communities maintained traditions that were lost in the West.

Additional Gospels and Writings

The Ethiopian Bible also contains apocryphal gospels and acts not found in the Western canon. These texts narrate episodes of Jesus’ childhood, miracles, and teachings excluded from European tradition. For Ethiopian believers, they are not “apocrypha” but an integral part of divine revelation.

The Ark of the Covenant in Axum

One of the greatest mysteries linked to Ethiopian tradition is the belief that the Ark of the Covenant is kept in Axum, at the Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion. According to tradition:

• Lifelong guardian: only one chosen priest can see and protect the Ark, dedicating his entire life to this mission.
• Origin: it is believed that Menelik I, son of Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, brought the Ark to Ethiopia nearly three thousand years ago.
• Mystery: the Ark has never been publicly shown, but pilgrims visit Axum believing in its presence.

What Is at Stake

• History: the Ethiopian Bible preserves texts that reveal a broader view of early Christianity.
• Spirituality: the additional gospels reinforce Ethiopian faith as the guardian of unique traditions.
• Mystery: the belief in the Ark of the Covenant in Axum connects Ethiopia directly to biblical roots.

Critical Conclusion

The Ethiopian Bible is a spiritual and historical treasure. Its 81 books and the tradition of the Ark of the Covenant in Axum reveal a faith that unites Jewish and Christian elements in a millennial narrative. More than curiosity, these secrets show how different cultures preserved distinct memories of the same faith, expanding the horizon of biblical history.

CTA: Want to explore more about ancient traditions and the secrets of Christian faith? Discover other articles by Pedro Freitas and deepen your critical analysis.

Sources:

• Ethiopian Bible (Wikipedia)
• Aventuras na História – Ark of the Covenant in Axum
• Últimos Acontecimentos – Ark of the Covenant in Ethiopia