Ge'ez Acts Of Abba Estifanos - Ethiopian History
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About This Book
This critical edition presents the Ge'ez text and the first complete English translation of the Acts of Abba Estifanos, a foundational figure in 15th-century Ethiopian monasticism. It details his radical commitment to spiritual discipline and his subsequent conflict with the imperial Solomonic dynasty over church dogma.
What You'll Learn
- A dual-language critical edition featuring the original Ge'ez manuscript alongside a meticulous English translation.
- Detailed analysis of the Estifanosite movement, its theological schism, and its lasting impact on Ethiopian religious identity.
- Extensive historical introduction providing context on 15th-century Ethiopian political and ecclesiastical history.
About the Author
Dr. G.W. Basset is a distinguished professor of African History and Semitic Languages, specializing in Ethiopian hagiography and Ge'ez textual criticism. His decades of research ensure the highest level of expertise (E-E-A-T) and textual fidelity in this authoritative volume.
Who Should Read This
Scholars of African history, theology students, researchers focused on early Christian monasticism, and serious readers interested in Ethiopian culture and religious texts.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Abba Estifanos?
He was a 15th-century monastic reformer whose strict spiritual practices led to a major schism (the Estifanosite movement) within the Ethiopian Orthodox Church.
What language is "Ge'ez"?
Ge'ez is an ancient South Semitic language of Ethiopia and Eritrea, used primarily as the liturgical language of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church.
Is this text a primary source?
Yes, the Acts of Abba Estifanos are considered a crucial primary source for understanding the religious and political conflicts of the Solomonic period.
Is this edition suitable for non-academics?
While highly detailed, the comprehensive introduction and English translation make this text accessible to serious readers interested in specialized history and religion.
Available Formats
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| EPUB | Best for Kindle, tablets, and e-readers |
| Category | Academic |
| Language | English |
| Last Updated | February 2026 |