Oldest Known Ethiopian Jewish Holy Books Discovered
Oldest Known Ethiopian Jewish Holy Books Discovered
Researchers at Tel Aviv University have found two sacred manuscripts dating back to the 15th century, making them the oldest known religious texts of Ethiopia’s Jewish community, Beta Israel.
These books, called Orit scrolls, include the Five Books of Moses along with Joshua, Judges, and Ruth. Written in Ge’ez, an ancient Ethiopian language used only by spiritual leaders (kessim), the scrolls were passed down through generations and fiercely protected. Some owners even risked their lives to bring them to Israel.
This is the first time Jewish manuscripts this old have been proven to exist among Beta Israel.
The discovery is part of a wider effort to document, study, and preserve Beta Israel’s biblical traditions. Researchers are also working to record the kessim’s oral teachings and interpretations, which were never written down. Only 18 kessim trained in Ethiopia still hold this knowledge today.
Photos of the manuscripts: Ted Erho
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