What was the religion of Aksum before Christianity?

What gods did Aksum worship?

The major deities were the familiar Semitic triad of the Sun, the Moon, and Venus. In the Aksumite period a somewhat different triad emerged, consisting of Ashtar (Venus), the sea god Behr, and the earth god Medr. The sun was a female deity, called by the Sabaean name Zat-Badar.

Why did King Ezana convert to Christianity?

Ezana’s decision to adopt Christianity was most likely influenced by his desire to solidify his trading relationship with the Roman Empire. Christianity afforded the possibility of unifying the many diverse ethnic and linguistic peoples of the Aksumite kingdom, a goal of Ezana’s leadership.

Which African kingdom adopted Christianity?

The first African kingdom to officially adopt Christianity as a state religion was Axum, a powerful kingdom in modern-day Ethiopia, ruled by King Ezana, in the fourth century CE.

What religion became a major part of the kingdom under King Ezana?

King Ezana also converted to Christianity. He was a devout Christian and Christianity became the major religion of the kingdom. Aksum was perfectly located to become a major center of trade. Merchants would travel from central Africa, Persia, India, and Egypt bringing their goods to Aksum to trade.

Is Ethiopian Orthodox Catholic?

These points distinguish it from the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, an Oriental Orthodox Church which comprises most Christians in the country.
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What was the religion of Ethiopia before Judaism?

Jews have lived in Ethiopia for over 2000 years. According to Ethiopian tradition, one-half of the population was Jewish before Christianity was proclaimed the official religion in the 4th century.

What is the oldest church in Africa?

Several authors have cited the Etchmiadzin Cathedral (Armenia’s mother church) as the oldest cathedral. Also St.
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Africa.