 The
central holy text of the Jews in Ethiopia was called the
'Orit'-Torah. The 'Orit' was the center of their lives
and religion.
The 'Orit' is made up of the Five Books of Moses, the
Prophetic writings, and other writings such as Song of
Songs and psalms.
It is written in the ancient language-Geez. The 'Orit',
wrapped in leather and colorful decorations, was always
kept in a special place: in the Bet Knesset or in the
home of one of the Kessim.
Ethiopian Jews lived according to
the laws of the Torah, and kept many traditions directly
connected to the written word of the Torah.
On Passover, for example, Ethiopian Jews slaughter a
goat, offer presents to the Kessim, etc.In
their prayers they have always included visions of a
peaceful Jerusalem and a hope to arrive there one day.
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