Genna Traditions
What date, according to the Ethiopian Orthodox calendar, is Christmas (Genna) celebrated, as referenced in Luke 2:7, which speaks of Jesus’ birth?
What is January 7?
According to Luke 2:4-7, Mary and Joseph traveled to this town where Jesus was born. Where was this?
What is Bethlehem?
During Genna, Ethiopian Orthodox Christians sing praises in a way similar to the angels in Luke 2:14. What are these hymns called?
What is Mahlet?
The Ethiopian Orthodox Church celebrates Genna based on the Julian calendar. How many days is it behind the Gregorian calendar?
What is 13 days?
Luke 2:7 mentions that Mary wrapped Jesus in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger. What does this symbolize about Jesus’ birth?
What is humility and simplicity?
Ethiopian Orthodox Christians prepare for Genna with fasting, reflecting the discipline taught in verses like Matthew 4:2, which speaks of Jesus fasting. What is this fasting period called?
What is the Fast of the Prophets (Tsome Nebiyat)?
The Wise Men brought Jesus gifts, fulfilling the prophecy of Psalm 72:10-11. Name one of the three gifts.
What is gold, frankincense, or myrrh?
Ethiopian Orthodox Christians take part in the Holy Communion during the Genna liturgy, recalling the Last Supper in Luke 22:19. What is the bread used in communion called?
What is Qurban?
Christianity was first introduced to Ethiopia in the 4th century by St. Frumentius. Which verse in Matthew 28:19 supports the mission of spreading Christianity?
What is “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations”?
Isaiah 7:14 prophesies the birth of Immanuel, meaning “God with us.” What does this signify about Jesus?
What is God’s presence among His people through Jesus?
A traditional game, symbolizing celebration during Genna, is played widely in Ethiopia. What game is this, tied to the joy expressed in Psalm 98:4?
What is Yegenna Chewata?
As prophesied in Isaiah 9:6, Jesus is called the Prince of Peace. What does this title signify in the context of his birth?
What is Jesus bringing peace between God and humanity?
Houses are decorated with fresh grass during Genna, symbolizing renewal, as reflected in Psalm 23:2. What does this tradition signify?
What is purity and a new beginning?
The Ethiopian Orthodox Church recognizes the Ark of the Covenant as central to its worship. In which book of the Bible is the Ark first described?
What is Exodus?
Matthew 1:21 says Jesus will save His people from their sins. How is this salvation achieved?
What is through Jesus’ death and resurrection?
Ethiopian Orthodox Christians attend an all-night church service for Genna, similar to the shepherds keeping watch in Luke 2:8. What is the name of this service?
What is the Liturgy (Qidase)?
Luke 2:13-14 mentions a heavenly host praising God after Jesus’ birth. What did they say?
What is “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men”?
Ethiopian Orthodox priests carry a symbolic object during Genna services, reminiscent of the Ark of the Covenant mentioned in Exodus 25:10. What is this object?
What is the Tabot?
The Kingdom of Aksum, the first to adopt Christianity in Ethiopia, was prophesied in Psalm 68:31, which says what about Ethiopia?
What is “Ethiopia shall soon stretch out her hands unto God”?
In John 8:12, Jesus says, “I am the light of the world.” How is this reflected in the celebration of Genna?
What is lighting candles and celebrating Jesus as the light in darkness?
The traditional food prepared for Genna includes special bread, reflecting fellowship mentioned in Acts 2:46. What is this bread called?
What is Difo Dabo?
In Micah 5:2, it was foretold that a ruler would come out of Bethlehem. What does this prophecy confirm about Jesus’ birth?
What is that Jesus is the Messiah and fulfills Old Testament prophecies?
Worshippers form concentric circles during Genna's prayers, symbolizing the unity of heaven and earth. Which event in Revelation 4:8 does this practice echo?
What is the angels worshiping God around His throne?
Ethiopian Emperor Ezana declared Christianity the state religion. Which verse in Acts 8:27-39 connects Ethiopia to early Christianity?
What is the story of the Ethiopian eunuch baptized by Philip?
In Revelation 19:16, Jesus is called the “King of Kings.” How does this title reflect the significance of his birth?
What is Jesus’ authority over all creation and His divine kingship?