Amhara, Ethiopian in Yemen

Introduction / History

The Amhara people are related descendants of the Tigray and Tigre people of Ethiopia and Eritrea, respectively, who comprise the Habeshan people group. The Amhara people historically trace their origins back to Shem, the eldest son of Noah. They left present-day Yemen to settle on the African side of the Red Sea, inhabiting the Nile Delta and all land East of the Ethiopian Highlands. These people are known in antiquity as the Ancient Egyptians who retreated back to Ethiopia and Eritrea after countless takeovers of Egypt. Here the Amhara people established the kingdoms of Sheba/Saba and Axum. After the Middle Ages they soon split into three tribes: Amhara, Tigre and Tigray. Each tribe developed languages are derived from Ge 'ez, their ancient language.

After being subdued by foreign powers countless times, the majority of Egyptians retreated to the safe havens of Eritrea and Ethiopia. Today, the Amharas live mainly in Central and East/North Eastern Ethiopia, while some reside in Yemen.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Amhara people still live as their ancestors for thousands of years. The tribe’s farmers reside in the Ethiopian Highlands by tending cattle and sheep. The household's father usually completes all farming tasks while the wife cooks at home and nurtures their children. The eldest son often assists his dad with farming or cares for the sheep. Other Amharas developed their work as merchants, although this profession is not as common. The Amhara used camels for transportation and ran caravan routes from the Nubian and Danakil deserts into major cities like Axum, Adulis, and Kumbar.

What Are Their Beliefs?

From early encounters with the Hebrew people, historic Habeshans adopted the early form of proto-Judaism. Though the high and ruling class continued to practice the Egyptian pagan religion, Queen Makda of Sheba was converted by King Solomon to Judaism. Ch

What Are Their Needs?

Ethiopian Amharas need a spiritual revival that will draw them to a deeper love for and commitment to follow Jesus Christ. It will require the work of the Holy Spirit.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully in Ethiopian Amhara churches.
Pray that Ethiopian Amharas will begin discipling others who need Christ, especially Muslims.
Pray for the Lord to bless their families as they learn to obey Christ.
Pray for the Lord to protect the Ethiopian Amharas in Yemen.

Text Source:   Joshua Project