The Orthodox Tewahedo Biblical Canon holds a unique position within the Ethiopian and Eritrean Orthodox Tewahedo Churches, encompassing a rich tapestry of 81 books that shape the spiritual and cultural identity of these faith communities. This expansive collection includes not only the familiar books found in other Christian canons but also several additional writings that offer distinct insights into the religious beliefs and practices of these ancient traditions.
At the core of the Orthodox Tewahedo Biblical Canon are the familiar books of the Old and New Testaments, along with an array of texts known as the “broader” or “narrower” canon. These encompass Ethiopian Orthodox books such as the “Book of Enoch,” “Jubilees,” “Meqabyan,” “Maccabees,” and “Ezra Sutu’el,” among others. These writings, revered as sacred scripture, provide a comprehensive framework for religious understanding, moral guidance, and theological reflection within the Ethiopian and Eritrean Orthodox Tewahedo Churches.
The Orthodox Tewahedo Biblical Canon is not merely a static compilation of ancient texts; rather, it serves as a dynamic source of spiritual nourishment and cultural heritage for the followers of these traditions. Through its diverse contents, it offers a mosaic of religious literature that delves into the historical, theological, and ethical dimensions of the faith, fostering a deep connection with the divine and guiding adherents in their daily lives.
Furthermore, the Orthodox Tewahedo Biblical Canon plays a central role in shaping the communal identity and ethical framework of these religious communities. Its teachings and narratives permeate various aspects of cultural expression, including art, music, and oral traditions, contributing to a holistic understanding of faith and spirituality that is deeply rooted in the historical and cultural context of Ethiopia and Eritrea.
In conclusion, the Orthodox Tewahedo Biblical Canon stands as an emblem of the enduring spiritual heritage and cultural legacy of the Ethiopian and Eritrean Orthodox Tewahedo Churches, embodying the profound spirituality and unwavering devotion of their followers while serving as a guiding light for generations past and present.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting the site!
The Girl Who Smiled Beads: A Story of War and What Comes After
$13.53 (as of December 18, 2025 16:34 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Shake Hands with the Devil: The Failure of Humanity in Rwanda
$11.34 (as of December 18, 2025 16:34 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
The Pirates of Somalia: Inside Their Hidden World
$12.16 (as of December 18, 2025 16:34 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Black Hawk Down
$19.68 (as of December 18, 2025 16:34 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Slow Poison: Idi Amin, Yoweri Museveni, and the Making of the Ugandan State
$17.88 (as of December 18, 2025 16:34 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
The Man-Eaters of Tsavo
$8.99 (as of December 18, 2025 16:34 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
First Footsteps in East Africa: Or, An Exploration of Harar; Volume 1
$36.40 (as of December 18, 2025 16:34 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Memoirs of an Arabian Princess from Zanzibar
$0.99 (as of December 18, 2025 16:34 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Operation Thunderbolt: Flight 139 and the Raid on Entebbe Airport, the Most Audacious Hostage Rescue Mission in History
$2.99 (as of December 18, 2025 16:34 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)