The Queen of Sheba and Her Only Son Menyelek

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

—

Title

The Queen of Sheba and Her Only Son Menyelek

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

This comprehensive volume presents a complete English translation of the *Kebra Nagast*, the revered Ethiopian text detailing the lineage of Abyssinian kings to Solomon and the Queen of Sheba. It explores the divine origin of Ethiopian royalty, the transfer of the Ark of the Covenant to Axum, and the rich tapestry of myth, history, and religion that shaped the nation's culture and identity for centuries.

Summary up to 500 words

E. A. Wallis Budge's translation of the *Kebra Nagast*, or *Glory of the Kings*, offers a profound exploration of Ethiopian heritage, asserting the kingdom's divine descent from the Hebrew Patriarchs and its unique spiritual status. The text narrates the legendary journey of Menyelek, the only son of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, who transported the Ark of the Covenant from Jerusalem to Axum, establishing a permanent divine sanctuary. Budge contextualizes these legends within a broader historical framework, drawing parallels between Ethiopian traditions and ancient Egyptian, Babylonian, and Biblical narratives regarding divine kingship and sacred arks. The work details the compilation history, noting the text's evolution from Coptic and Arabic sources into Ethiopic. The principal groundwork was laid in the sixth century by a Coptic priest, but the text was significantly expanded in the 14th century by a translator named Isaac. Isaac, an enthusiastic Christian visionary, sought to glorify the Solomonic line. He firmly believed that the lawful kings of Ethiopia were descended from Solomon, that the Ark had been brought to Axum by Menyelek, and that God had transferred His place of abode from Jerusalem to Axum. Isaac viewed the removal of the Tabernacle of the Law from Jerusalem as the Will of God, satisfied that the Jews were unworthy custodians. The narrative vividly accounts for the Ark's miraculous travels. Upon leaving Jerusalem, the Ark was accompanied by the Archangel Michael, who raised wagons and beasts above the ground, allowing the procession to travel without fatigue or thirst. The people of Israel witnessed this miracle, recognizing it as a direct act of God. Upon reaching the border of Ethiopia, the Ark was welcomed with immense joy, becoming the 'Lady' and salvation of the nation. The text includes prophecies concerning the future of the faith, declaring that the kingdom of Ethiopia would bow before God while His enemies would eat the dust. Furthermore, the book asserts that the divine origin of Ethiopian monarchs is indigenous, paralleling ancient Egyptian beliefs where kings were considered sons of gods like Ra or Amen. Through these accounts, the book serves as both a historical record and a spiritual testament to the enduring belief that God's presence permanently resides in Ethiopia, making it a beacon of salvation and a kingdom of divine origin.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Religion
• History