Timkat facts for kids
Timkat (pronounced T’imk’et) is a special holiday for the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church and the Eritrean Orthodox Tewahedo Church. It celebrates Epiphany, which is when Christians remember important events in the life of Jesus. Timkat happens every year on January 19th. If it's a leap year, it's celebrated on January 20th.
This festival celebrates the baptism of Jesus in the River Jordan. During Timkat, people act out the baptism. This is similar to how some Christians visit the Jordan River to remember Jesus's baptism.
What is Timkat?
Timkat is a very important religious festival in Ethiopia and Eritrea. It is a time for people to remember and celebrate the baptism of Jesus Christ. The word "Timkat" itself means "baptism" in the Ge'ez language.
The Tabot and the Ceremony
A very special part of Timkat is the Tabot. The Tabot is a holy model of the Ark of the Covenant. Every Ethiopian church has a Tabot on its altar. During Timkat, these Tabots are carefully wrapped in beautiful cloth. Then, priests carry them on their heads in a procession.
Normally, regular church members do not see the Tabot. But during Timkat, it is brought out. The Tabot represents Jesus showing himself as the Messiah when he came to the Jordan River to be baptized.
The main church service, called the Divine Liturgy, happens early in the morning. It usually starts around 2 AM near a river or a pool. As dawn approaches, the water is blessed. Then, some of this holy water is sprinkled on the people. Many people also go into the water and dip themselves. This act helps them remember and renew their own baptismal vows.
A Big Celebration!
The Timkat festival is not just about the morning ceremony. It is a huge celebration that lasts all day! By noon, many people gather at the celebration site. Those who went home for a short rest return.
The holy Tabot is then taken back to its church. This return is a colorful procession filled with joy. Priests wear bright robes and carry umbrellas of many colors. They sing hymns and perform dances. Older people walk solemnly, while middle-aged men sing traditional songs.
Children run around, full of energy, and might join in the services. Women dress in their best clothes and chat excitedly. It is often seen as a day of great freedom for them. Young people jump and dance with lots of energy. They tirelessly repeat rhythmic songs.
After the holy Tabot is safely back in its church, everyone goes home for a big feast. Timkat is one of the most important holidays in Ethiopia and Eritrea. In 2019, UNESCO added Timkat to its List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This means it is recognized as a very important cultural tradition that should be protected.
See also
In Spanish: Timkat para niños
