Timket, also known as Ethiopian Epiphany, is one of the most vibrant and spiritually rich celebrations in Ethiopia, observed annually on January 19th (or January 20th during leap years). It commemorates the baptism of Jesus Christ in the River Jordan and is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church.

Once the Tabots arrive, they are respectfully placed in tents, symbolizing Christ’s journey to the River Jordan. The following morning, the main Timket ceremony begins at dawn with the blessing of the water. Priests perform rituals using ornate crosses dipped in the water, and worshippers either get sprinkled or fully immerse themselves as a symbolic act of spiritual renewal through baptism.

To me, Timket has always been my favorite holiday—not just for its rich spiritual significance and beautiful traditions, but because of the deep personal joy it brought me as a child. Growing up, it was the one time of year I was allowed to join my friends, cousins, and siblings outside on the streets, freely and joyfully celebrating with the entire neighborhood.

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