Ethiopian Orthodox names are a reflection of the country's rich cultural heritage and its strong Christian tradition. In Ethiopia, names are often chosen based on their meaning and significance, and many names have a direct connection to the Ethiopian Orthodox Church.
Ethiopian Orthodox names are deeply rooted in Scripture, saints, and the Ge’ez liturgical language. Most children are baptized with a “Christian name” (often called simä qäddus – holy name), typically given 40 days after birth for a boy and 80 days for a girl, mirroring Old and New Testament purification traditions. ethiopian orthodox names