The Aksumites invented a unique #Geez script derived from the Sabean alphabet.

Created on 28 December, 2023 • knowledge tips • 317 views • 2 minutes read

The Aksumites invented a unique #Geez script derived from the Sabean alphabet.

The Aksumites invented a unique #Geez script derived from the Sabean alphabet.

The Aksumites are renowned for inventing the Geez script derived from the Sabean alphabet. This remarkable achievement holds great cultural and linguistic significance in the Horn of Africa. Ge'ez, an ancient language, was formally introduced as an official language during the rule of the first Aksumite kingdom when the Sabeans sought refuge in Aksum. However, the development of the Geez script by the Aksumites is a distinct tale. This script, originating in the 6th century AD in the Tigray region of Ethiopia, is specifically associated with the Semitic Ge'ez language.

It is essential to clarify that the historical roots of the Geez script can be traced back to the Aksumites rather than the ambiguous claims regarding the Sabaeans. The Sabaean alphabet, belonging to the group of South Arabian alphabets, transformed over time and eventually gave way to the Arabic script. While Geez shares similarities with the Sabean alphabet, as its letters are derived from it, developing the Geez script by the Aksumites is remarkable. The gradual evolution of the Geez script can be observed as a fascinating transformation, and an accompanying picture can help visualize this metamorphosis. The Sabean Musned script underwent a notable shift, resulting in the emergence of the Geez script. Furthermore, additional vowels were incorporated into the script to make it vocalized.

The Aksumites, particularly the scholarly figures from Tigray, played an instrumental role in developing the Geez script, showcasing their unique contribution to the region's history.

The ancient state of Damat was located south of Axum in Tigray.

It was the first locally known site in Ethiopia. Damat established its external relations with South Arabia. It is also known that Damat used the port of Adulis as an outlet for its trade. E all knows Adulis was Tigray, Treaty of Ucciali sabotage, May 2, 1889, signed by z Italians & Menilek II granted z northern Tigray now modern Eritrea, Bahr Negash territories of Bogos, Hamasen, Akale-Guzai, etc.. and the Italian successfully manipulates and inject a new identity so-called the Eritrea and concord oppressed them for 60 years. That's where you get the identity crisis.

The Tigrinya and Amharic alphabet, derived from Geez, shares its structure and consists of 33 characters, each with seven variations for consonant-vowel combinations.

Axum lost its south Arabian territories because of

the Persian invasion. The Persians controlled the

whole of Arabia by the year 602 A.D. After this,

the Persians interrupted the Axumite trade with

India and Ceylon

The circumstance that led to the power of this dynasty, as well as the number of kings who ruled the kingdom, is uncertain

THE ZAGWE PERIOD(1150-1270)

The Agew people had been influenced by the Axumite tradition and had even adopted Christianity. The Zagwe kings were Christians who used Geez in the churches.

The reign of Lalibela (1181-1221) marked the zenith of the Zagwe dynasty.