The Book of the Covenant, known in Ge’ez as Metsihafe Kidan (መጽሐፈ ኪዳን), stands out as a unique gem in the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church (EOTC) Bible. While Western Bibles limit themselves to 66 (Protestant) or 73 (Catholic) books, the Ethiopian Bible’s 81 books include this intriguing text—often misunderstood outside Ethiopia.
This guide dives into the history, contents, and significance of Metsihafe Kidan, separating it from the Old Testament “Book of the Covenant” (Exodus 24:7). Discover why it’s a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s ancient Christian heritage.
“The Book of the Covenant in the Ethiopian Bible—known as Metsihafe Kidan (መጽሐፈ ኪዳን)—is a New Testament‑era work within the Ethiopian 81‑book canon, recording Jesus’ hidden teachings to the apostles after His resurrection and shaping early church order and eschatology. While complete English PDFs remain rare and many modern ‘Ethiopian Bible in English’ apps and books still emphasize the traditional 66‑book KJV canon, the text is widely available in Ge’ez and Amharic within Ethiopia and among Ethiopian Orthodox communities. Christianity itself traces its origins to 1st‑century Judea, with the Ethiopian Church preserving one of the oldest continuous Christian traditions in Africa, often reflected in digital Bibles and apps like Faithmade or other Ethiopian‑focused platforms that highlight the broader canon.”
What Is the Book of the Covenant (Metsihafe Kidan)?
In EOTC tradition, Metsihafe Kidan belongs to the Broader Canon of the New Testament. Unlike the Old Testament version—a legal code from Moses—this book delivers Jesus Christ’s post-resurrection teachings to His apostles during the 40 days before His Ascension.
It emphasizes church order, liturgy, and eschatological prophecies, preserved in Ge’ez through Ethiopia’s isolated Christian lineage.
Key Differences: Ethiopian Metsihafe Kidan vs. Old Testament Book of the Covenant
| Feature | Ethiopian Book of the Covenant (Metsihafe Kidan) | Old Testament Book of the Covenant |
|---|---|---|
| Canon Location | New Testament (EOTC Broader Canon) | Old Testament (Exodus 21–23) |
| Original Language | Ge’ez | Hebrew |
| Primary Theme | Church order, liturgy, post-resurrection teachings | Mosaic Law & social ethics |
| Attributed To | Jesus Christ & Apostles | Moses |
The 81-Book Ethiopian Bible Canon: Narrower vs. Broader
The EOTC Bible totals 81 books, split between the Narrower Canon (aligning closer to Western canons) and Broader Canon (including extras like Metsihafe Kidan). The Book of the Covenant counts as two books (Kidan I and Kidan II) in the Broader New Testament, highlighting Ethiopia’s preservation of early Christian texts post-Chalcedon Council (451 AD).
Contents of Metsihafe Kidan: Two-Part Structure
Metsihafe Kidan divides into two sections, blending practical church rules with profound theology.
Part 1: Church Order and Liturgy
Linked to the Testamentum Domini, this focuses on early church operations:
- Clergy regulations: Rules for selecting and guiding bishops, priests, and deacons.
- Liturgical rites: Steps for Eucharist, sacraments, and worship.
- Baptism procedures: Rituals for new converts.
Part 2: Post-Resurrection Teachings
This apocalyptic section captures Jesus’ “secret” 40-day discourses:
- Kingdom of God insights: Hidden revelations beyond the four Gospels.
- Eschatology: End-times prophecies and the Second Coming.
- Mystical wisdom: Apostolic traditions on spiritual life.
Authorship, History, and Ethiopian Preservation
Tradition credits the Apostles, who shared these teachings with Clement of Rome, tying it to “Clementine” literature. Western scholars call it pseudepigrapha (4th–5th century origin), but the EOTC affirms its authenticity.
Ethiopia’s post-Chalcedon isolation shielded it from Western canon trims, safeguarding Metsihafe Kidan alongside books like Enoch and Jubilees.
Book of the Covenant FAQ
Is Metsihafe Kidan one of the “lost books” of the Bible?
No—it’s never been lost in Ethiopia, forming core scripture for 1,600+ years, unlike Protestant/Catholic exclusions.
Where can I read the Book of the Covenant in English?
Full translations are scarce; seek academic sources on Ethiopic Clementina. Ge’ez and Amharic editions abound in EOTC churches.
Why isn’t it in the King James Version or Western Bibles?
KJV follows the Narrow Canon from European councils and Reformation, favoring Hebrew/Greek originals over broader apostolic texts.
Why Explore Metsihafe Kidan Today?
This book reveals Jesus’ hidden teachings after resurrection and early church foundations, offering a window into Africa’s oldest Christian tradition. Perfect for seekers of the Ethiopian Bible 81 books.
For a visual intro to the 81-book canon:
Why Does the Ethiopian Bible Have 81 Books? (YouTube)