Timket ⇒ Ethiopian Epiphany
Timket, Celebrating the Baptism of Christ, is the greatest festival of the year falling on January 19th (January 20 during leap year). It is a colorful festival of Orthodox Christians in Ethiopia.
Timket is a three-day affair. The eve of Timket is called Ketera. This is when the Tabots/ replica of the Ark of the Covenant and the tablets of the Law/ of each church are carried out in procession and rests to a river side, pond or artificial pond or pool in a big cities. It will be started around 02:00 am by singing of priests and the crowds.
The following day is commemorated Christ’s baptism in the Jordan River by John the Baptist.
The third day is devoted to the feast of St. Michael, the archangel. The Tabot of St. Michael’s is returned to his church, also accompanied by the singing and dancing of priests and locals with their colorful dress.
It is also celebrated in each Christian home with Tej & Tella (Ethiopian cultural alcoholic drinks brewed in homes) and bake special bread (defo) in home.
