It is now 2017 in Ethiopia, seven years behind the Gregorian calendar. Happy New Year! See Details.

It is now 2017 in Ethiopia, seven years behind the Gregorian calendar. Happy New Year! See Details.

Ethiopia commemorates the year 2017, which is seven years behind the Gregorian calendar utilized by the majority of countries worldwide. 

In Ethiopia, the New Year is referred to as Enkutatash and it is celebrated on September 11th (or September 12th during a leap year) according to the Gregorian calendar.

This occasion signifies the conclusion of the rainy season and is characterized by festivities that include singing, dancing, and the exchange of gifts.

Christmas, known as Ganna in Ethiopia, is celebrated on January 7th. This date aligns with the Ethiopian Orthodox calendar, which closely resembles the Julian calendar.

The festivities encompass religious observances, family reunions, and traditional games.

According to cultural trip reports, it asserts that the Ethiopian New Year calendar is intricately linked to biblical accounts, influencing various aspects such as the naming of the days of the week and the twelve months.

For instance, the first day of the week, called Ehud, translates to ‘the first day’ in the ancient Ge’ez language, which is the liturgical language of the Ethiopian church.

This term indicates that Ehud is the initial day on which God initiated the creation of the heavens and the earth.

Due to its complex nature, Ethiopians refer to the calendar calculation method as Bahere Hasab, meaning ‘sea of thoughts.’

This system is based on the belief that Adam and Eve dwelled in the Garden of Eden for seven years before their expulsion due to sin.

After their repentance, the Bible narrates that God promised them salvation after 5,500 years. 

Both the Ethiopian and Gregorian calendars base their calculations on the birth of Jesus Christ.

The difference between the two arises from the distinct approaches used to ascertain this date.

The Ethiopian Orthodox Church asserts that Jesus Christ was born in 7 BC, which is 5,500 years after God’s promise to Adam and Eve.

Experts note that the Roman Church revised its calculations in 500 CE, while the Ethiopian Orthodox Church chose to adhere to the ancient dates. As indicated by Cultural Trip reports, contemporary Ethiopia continues to uphold its traditional calendar.

In Ethiopia, travelers typically do not encounter significant challenges due to this calendar disparity, as most Ethiopians are familiar with the Gregorian calendar, and many utilize both systems interchangeably.

In addition, Ethiopian New Year boasts a profound cultural heritage that traces back to the era of the Queen of Sheba.

The name of the holiday is inspired by the narrative of the Queen’s return to Ethiopia following her visit to King Solomon. 

Road Trip in Ethiopia.