This quote is a direct echo of 1 John 4:8, central to Ethiopian Orthodox spirituality. It reminds the faithful that every act of selfless love is a participation in the divine nature. In Amharic, "Egziabher" (Lord of the Universe) carries a weight of sovereignty, emphasizing that love is not just an attribute but the very essence of God. (Säw bälibu yasäbäwän Egziabher bäšira w yifätnäwal.) Translation: "God tests what a person thinks in their heart through their actions."
Səlam lähu (Peace be with you).
Often recited during Kidane Mihret (Covenant of Mercy) prayers. In a culture that deeply respects elders and the fading of earthly life, this quote is a comfort. It reassures the faithful that while youth, wealth, and even this world will vanish, God’s mihret (mercy/compassion) is eternal and unchanging. (Andebäteh qidus qidase yihun, aynih wängel, əjih ts'elot.) Translation: "Let your tongue be the Liturgy, your eyes the Gospel, your hands prayer." ethiopian orthodox quotes in amharic
(Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church Spiritual Sayings) 1. እግዚአብሔር ፍቅር ነው ፍቅርም እግዚአብሔር ነው። (Egziabher fik'r new, fik'rim Egziabher new.) Translation: "God is love, and love is God." This quote is a direct echo of 1