Over centuries, Ethiopians have cultivated a culture of tolerance and co-existence among diverse religious communities, fostering a deep sense of peace and unity within the country. Religious tolerance is deeply ingrained in the fabric of Ethiopian society, representing a timeless tradition that has withstood the test of time. Ethiopia’s commitment to religious freedom, interfaith dialogue, and cultural celebrations has fostered an environment of respect, acceptance, and coexistence.
As the country continues to navigate its path towards progress and development, preserving and nurturing this age-old practice of religious tolerance will remain a cornerstone of Ethiopian identity.
Ethiopia’s religious landscape is marked by a rich tapestry of Christianity and Islam, each holding a significant place in the nation’s heritage. The country’s commitment to inclusivity and tolerance has earned it a reputation as a beacon of hope for religious co-existence and harmony, as recognized by historians and scholars alike.
Meskel Square, a renowned venue for hosting grand national events in Addis Ababa, recently played host to a series of religious gatherings that attracted thousands of Orthodox Christians, Protestants, and Muslims. Despite efforts to sow discord, each event concluded peacefully, showcasing the resilience of Ethiopia’s spirit of unity and understanding.
The 4th Ethiopian Grand Iftar, a significant event held last Wednesday here in Addis Ababa, brought together Muslims in colorful attire from all corners of the city to observe the breaking of the fast ceremony at Meskel Square.
During the program, the President of the Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council, Honorary Dr. Haji Ibrahim Tufa, emphasized the shared responsibility of citizens in promoting peace and harmony. He highlighted the importance of supporting individuals affected by displacement and called for a collective effort to restore peace in the community. This event not only celebrated the unity among different religious groups but also underscored Ethiopia’s enduring commitment to peace, tolerance, and the promotion of a harmonious society in the global community.
Sheikh Sultan Aman Eba, President of the Addis Ababa Islamic Affairs Council, highlighted the significance of the Grand Iftar in showcasing the dedication of Ethiopian Muslims towards maintaining peace and stability. He called upon all Muslim residents in the city to support ongoing projects, such as the construction of modern mosques and various governmental infrastructural developments across different areas.
Ustaz Abubeker Ahmed, Special Advisor of the Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council and patron of the Grand Street Iftar, on his part emphasized that the Street Iftar not only promotes religious beliefs but also brings people from diverse backgrounds together.
Although relatively new in Ethiopia, the Street Iftar has gained momentum since its inception, aiming to foster unity and solidarity among individuals from all walks of life.
In an interview with The Ethiopia Herald, Ismael Hussein, who participated in the fourth Grand Street Iftar at Meskel Square, expressed the importance of showcasing Ethiopia›s rich Islamic history and its tradition of unity and harmony among various religious groups. He highlighted Ethiopia›s historical significance as the first country to welcome Islam during times of persecution, providing refuge to its followers.
Hussein emphasized the role of the Street Iftar in demonstrating the humility and faith of Ethiopian believers during the holy months of Lent and Ramadan, observed by Christians and Muslims.
He underscored the blessings and unity experienced by celebrating the Iftar alongside fellow Muslim brothers and sisters, which serves as an opportunity to share Ethiopian values with the world.
As a Muslim, Hussein highli ghted Ethiopia’s unique place in Islam, noting the presence of tombs of thirteen senior messengers of Islam in the country. Throughout history, Ethiopia has been a sanctuary for those persecuted due to their religious beliefs, earning a reputation as a beacon of tolerance due to its significant position in the teachings of both Christianity and Islam.
Sheikh Sultan Aman Eba concluded by emphasizing that the successful organization of the Grand Street Iftar provides a platform for sharing values of humanity and unity. He stressed the importance of standing together to counter any negative sentiments towards Ethiopia, sending a powerful message to both the global community and the nation›s adversaries that Ethiopia›s religious diversity is a source of pride and strength.
The Grand Street Iftar event, which saw the participation of over 80,000 individuals in Addis Ababa, was organized by the Halal Promotion and Nejashi Humanitarian Organization. This annual gathering, initiated four years ago, aims to promote cohesion, peace, and solidarity within the Muslim community.
The theme of the 4th Grand Street Iftar in Addis Ababa was ‹Gather for Unity›, reflecting the core values of the event in bringing together people from diverse backgrounds to celebrate unity and harmony. The significant turnout at the event underscores the growing importance of fostering a sense of togetherness and understanding among individuals of different faiths in Ethiopia.
Ethiopia, a country known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse religious landscape, has a long-standing tradition of religious tolerance. Throughout its history, Ethiopia has embraced a spirit of coexistence, respect, and acceptance among different religious communities.
Ethiopia’s religious tolerance can be traced back centuries, deeply rooted in the country’s ancient traditions and historical events. Ethiopia’s geographical location at the crossroads of different civilizations has facilitated cultural and religious exchanges, further promoting tolerance and understanding.
The Ethiopian constitution, enacted in 1995, upholds the principles of religious freedom and equality. It explicitly mandates the separation of state and religion, ensuring that no particular faith is favored over others. The constitution protects the rights of individuals to choose and practice their religion freely, without fear of discrimination or persecution. This legal framework has provided a solid foundation for religious tolerance in Ethiopia.
Religious tolerance in Ethiopia is not merely a passive acceptance of different faiths but actively encourages interfaith dialogue and cooperation. Leaders and representatives from various religious communities regularly engage in discussions, promoting mutual understanding, and addressing common challenges. These dialogues foster a sense of unity and respect among different religious groups, strengthening the fabric of Ethiopian society.
Ethiopia’s cultural traditions and festivals also reflect the spirit of religious tolerance. While religious tolerance has been a longstanding practice in Ethiopia, it is essential to acknowledge the challenges that exist. In recent years, there have been isolated incidents of religious tensions and conflicts, often fueled by external factors. However, the Ethiopian government and religious leaders are committed to addressing these challenges and promoting peace and harmony among all religious communities.
BY MENGISTEAB TESHOME
The Ethiopian Herald March 31/2024
