Tsedeniya Miraw

Meskel is one of the most important Ethiopian Orthodox church holidays and widely celebrated festivals, commemorating the finding of the True Cross by Queen Helena, the mother of Roman Emperor Constantine the Great. She was told that she should make a bonfire and that the smoke would show her where the True Cross was buried. So she ordered the people of Jerusalem to bring wood and make a huge pile. Meskel, a revered Ethiopian festival, honors the discovery of the true cross of Jesus Christ. Celebrated annually on September 27 or 28 (in Leap Year), this religious and cultural event unites millions in Ethiopia, showcasing vibrant traditions and deep spiritual significance. The Story of the True Cross Meskel Holiday in Ethiopian The Meskel festival in Ethiopia celebrates the discovery of the True Cross by Queen Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine, in the 4th century. According to tradition, Helena found the cross on which Jesus was crucified after a series of divine signs. To mark this event, Meskel is celebrated on September 27th with vibrant ceremonies including the lighting of a large bonfire called “Demera,” which symbolizes the light of Christ. The festival is marked by church services, processions, traditional dances, and community gatherings, reflecting both religious significance and Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage. What is the Ethiopian Meskel holiday? The Meskel festival stands as a familiar symbol cherished by millions across Ethiopia and revered by many worldwide for its profound Christianity and vibrant symbolism. Yet, amidst the festivities lies another symbol, less known but equally significant to the devout. This symbol is the fragment of the True Cross of Jesus Christ, resting in a holy sanctuary atop a cross-shaped plateau within a cross-shaped church at the remote monastery of Gishen Mariam. Ethiopia, with its Monophysite Christianity dating back to the fourth century, intertwines religious belief with national identity. As the cornerstone of Ethiopian existence, the Church observes many feasts and festivals, among which the Festival of the Finding of the True Cross, or Meskle, holds a prominent place. Celebrated nationwide, this annual event underscores the deep-rooted spiritual connection of the Ethiopian people to their faith and heritage. When is Meskel Celebrated Meskel traces its roots back over 1,600 years to the fourth century AD. According to Ethiopian Orthodox Christian tradition, it commemorates the discovery of the True Cross upon which Jesus Christ was crucified. Meskel is celebrated on September 27th (or September 28th in a leap year) according to the Ethiopian calendar. This date corresponds to the 17th of Meskerem in the Ethiopian calendar. The festival marks the discovery of the True Cross by Queen Helena and is an important event in Ethiopian Orthodox Christian tradition. Demera Or Bone Fire The Meskel festival celebration begins with the burning of a large bonfire called Demera, by a large procession of Christians at the Meskel square – named in honor of the festival. This Demera procession often begins on the eve of the event or sometimes on the morning of the celebration.In the capital city of Addis Ababa, held in Meskel Square large firewood is decorated with the Meskel flower and then set on fire in line with the festival’s history. The Meskel flowers are yellow daisies that coincidentally bloom at the time of the celebration. These daisies are usually tied to the top of branches and bundled together into the demera, which is then set ablaze by the procession of people on the eve of the festival.The crowd encircles the bonfire singing special Meskel songs(mezemure) while allowing it to burn completely into ash. Visiting Ethiopia During Meskel Visiting Ethiopia during Meskel offers a unique glimpse into the country’s vibrant religious and cultural life, providing a memorable experience of community, faith, and celebration. Demera: The eve of Meskel (September 26th) is marked with the lighting of big bonfires, called Demera, in public squares and church courtyards. The biggest celebration takes place in Addis Ababa’s Meskel Square. Religious Ceremonies: On the day of Meskel (September twenty-seventh), you will find processions, prayers, and the chanting of hymns. Churches are beautifully embellished, and people get dressed in conventional white clothing. Cultural Performances: Traditional track and dance performances are commonplace, showcasing Ethiopia’s wealthy cultural historical past. Feasting: After the non-secular ceremonies, families share festive food, often presenting unique dishes like Doro Wat, ketfo (chook stew), and Injera (Ethiopian flatbread). UNESCO Recognition The Meskel holiday, celebrated in Ethiopia, is a significant cultural event commemorating the discovery of the True Cross by Saint Helena in the 4th century. Recognized by UNESCO in 2013, Meskel was added to the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, highlighting its importance as a cultural tradition. The celebration is known for the lighting of a large bonfire, called a Damera, which symbolizes the light that guided the discovery of the True Cross. Participants in the Meskel festivities wear traditional clothing and partake in singing and dancing, showcasing the vibrant customs of Ethiopian culture. This international recognition underscores the cultural significance of Meskel and the importance of preserving its unique practices for future generations. Frequently asked questions What is Meskel celebration?Meskel is a religious festival celebrated by the Ethiopian Orthodox Church to commemorate the discovery of the True Cross, the cross upon which Jesus Christ was crucified. The festival is one of the most important religious events in Ethiopia.Where is the True Cross of Jesus now in Ethiopia?It was placed in Gishen on Meskerem 21 sometime in the mid-15th century Ethiopian Calendar (on September 30 in Gregorian Calander) The church of Egziabhier Ab ( translates to God the father) stands, for over many many hundreds of years now, where the cross is kept. Church of Virgin Mary stands adjacent to it. What is the symbol of the Ethiopian cross?Coptic crosses, also known as the “Ethiopian Coptic Cross,” are distinctive in their shape, featuring a looped cross with equal-length arms. They are deeply revered for their historical connection to the ancient.When is Meskel celebrated?According to the Ethiopian calendar, Meskel is celebrated annually on September 27th (or September 28th in a leap year). This corresponds to September 17th or 18th in the Gregorian calendar.Is Meskel celebrated outside of Ethiopia?Yes, Meskel is also celebrated by Ethiopian Orthodox communities around the world, including those in the United States, Europe, and other parts of Africa.

Tsedeniya Miraw

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