Meskel — is a religious holiday celebrated annually on September 27, and in leap years — on September 28. The word «meskel» itself means «crest» in Amharic.
In Ethiopia there is a legend about how the Meskel holiday originated. It is believed that on this day Helena, the mother of the Byzantine Emperor Constantine, after a long search, managed to fulfill the most cherished desire — to find in Jerusalem the greatest shrine of Christianity — Cross of the Lord, on which Jesus Christ suffered martyrdom in the name of saving people.
In honor of this significant event, Empress Helena lit a fire in the main square of Jerusalem. Legend has it that the flames soared so high that they were visible in Ethiopia. The people rejoiced and celebrated this event. This happened at the beginning of the 4th century, and since then Meskel has been celebrated here every year.
Ethiopians celebrate the holiday very solemnly. On the occasion of Meskel, Ethiopians are erecting a huge herbal hut near temples and on the streets, topped with a cross, — demeru. This hut hosts the brightest part of the holiday, where almost all residents gather in anticipation of the biggest celebration. After an emotional speech by the patriarch blessing the people of Ethiopia, the performance begins.
Performance at the Meskel festival — is a special honor. In front of the head of the church, Sunday school students walk through the square, dressed in colorful outfits with crosses embroidered on their chests. Children enthusiastically perform religious chants, dance and perform mini-performances based on stories related to the history of the holiday.
When the sun hides behind the folds of the mountains and darkness thickens, the culmination of the holiday comes. The Patriarch, accompanied by a large retinue, slowly walking with a torch in his hands, heads towards the stack. Three solemn circles while reading — prayers and a torch touches a ritual hut. In a few minutes, a huge fire flares up in the center of the square. There is so much light and warmth that it seems the sun has returned!
Songs and dances begin around the burning fire.