Tewahedo

Täwahedo means “being made one’” or “unified” referring to the Oriental Orthodox belief in the natural union of the divine and human nature into one as the nature of Christ. According to the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, this is the key to achieving the salvation of humankind. Täwahedo is a photographic series taken in different Ethiopian Orthodox celebrations in Tigray and Amhara Regions where traditions and faith evoke images of Bible times. The Orthodox Church is a central part of the culture for the large majority. The church buildings are constructed on hills. Major celebrations during the year are held around the church, where people gather from villages all around to sing, play games, and observe the unique mass of the church, which includes a procession through the church grounds and environs. Ethiopia is one of the earliest nations to adopt Christianity in the first half of the fourth century, and its historical roots date to the time of the Apostles. The faith of the church is very intimately woven into the culture of the Christian members of the Ethiopian people and is central to their way of life. With the majority of the population of Tigray and Amhara practising Ethiopian Orthodox religion, these photographic series show my experiences living among them, documenting their strong beliefs and religious celebrations.