Saturday, March 10, 2012

Why Amhara?

People have asked me – “Why the name Amhara ?”
My choice of the name Amhara continues to be emboldened the more I learn of Amhara. I pray that this blog espouses the richness and depth as the name proposes.  
Although, I have never visited Amhara , I find myself drawn to its majestic heritage and mystic.  Much of my knowledge about this region and the people comes from my limited internet research and some discussions with individuals from Amhara.

This region and its people have a symbolic and rich history. Amhara is located in Ethiopia and the people speak Amharic.  “From the time when modern Ethiopia was the realm of Abyssinia, the Amhara and the Tigray filled the ranks of the political elite of the country.” (Amhara, 2012) It is stated the original natives of Amhara were descents of  “Menelik I* (the child born of the queen of Sheba and King Solomon).” (History of the Amhara people, 2012)
Amhara’s linkage to Solomon who is called “the wisest man that ever lived”. Proverbs 1:20-33 -further emboldens my choice of the name Amhara. As a Christian and seeking to know God and His wisdom, Amhara’s linkage to Christianity is a good fit. However, I am cautioned not to make too much of a deal about Amhara’s Christianity as those who live in Amhara believe that to be Amhara is to be Christian but in an Orthodox nature not in a true relationship with Christ. The fact still remains this region is mostly Christian. (The Amhara People of Ethiopia , 2012)   
In my personal encounter with individuals from Amhara, they are a beautiful people.  I met a young lady from Amhara.  Her skin was as smooth as silk, her eyes were a burgeoning caramel, and her smile was as white pearls from the sea.  The impression she left was that of a proud and intelligent people.
Why Amhara?
Because the prestige and heritage of the region and the people are a premise for the discussions and content presented as part of this blog.




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