Amhara, Ethiopian in Italy

Introduction / History

The Amhara people are related to the Tigray and Tigre people of Ethiopia and Eritrea who together make up the Habeshans. These people can trace their origins back to Shem, eldest son of Noah. They left present day Yemen and settled on the African side of the Red Sea inhabiting the Nile Delta and all land East of the valley down to the Ethiopian Highlands. These people are known in antiquity as the Ancient Egyptians who retreated back to Ethiopia and Eritrea after countless takeovers of Egypt. here they established other great kingdoms such as Sheba/Saba and Axum. After the Middle Ages they soon split into 3 tribes: Amhara, Tigre and Tigray with their own languages that all derived from Ge 'ez, their ancient language.

After being subdued by foreign powers countless times, the majority of Egyptians retreated to the safe havens of Eritrea and Ethiopia. Today, the Amhara live mainly in Central and East/North Eastern Ethiopia. A small number have managed to migrate to European countries like Italy to work.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Those who live in European countries have new opportunities. They are usually allowed into Sweden, Norway, Germany, Finland and Italy because they have marketable skills. It’s important that they learn the new language so they can function.

Amhara Ethiopians in Italy tend to be young. There are many ethnic tensions in Ethiopia, but ironically, in Italy they must all come together for Ethiopian cultural events. They relate to one another through social media on a regular basis.

What Are Their Beliefs?

From early encounters with the Hebrew people, many adopted the early form of proto-Judasim. Though the high and ruling class continued to to practice the Egyptian pagan religion until Queen Makda of Sheba was converted by King Solomon to Judaism. Christia

What Are Their Needs?

Many Amharas in Europe need to learn new languages and sometimes job skills. The elderly among them often have menial jobs because they lack language skills.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to raise up many Christians with a special love for Amharas that will teach them new languages and help them adapt.
Pray for Ethiopian Orthodox churches in Italy to be overwhelmed with the power and goodness of the Holy Spirit.
Pray for Amharas to put their hope in Jesus Christ and share his ways with others.

Text Source:   Joshua Project