Ethiopia Rules & Etiquette

Rules & Etiquette

Time and Calendar In Ethiopia, the 12-hour clock cycles do not begin at midnight and noon, but instead are offset six hours. Thus, Ethiopians refer to midnight (or noon) as 6 o'clock. Ethiopia is one of the few countries (perhaps even the only one), not to have changed the Julian Calendar to Gregorian calendar, at the beginning of the 19th century. Therefore, the Julian calendar (Ethiopians call it incorrectly 'Ethiopian calendar') starts on September 11. One year consists of twelve months, each lasting thirty days, plus a thirteenth month of five or six days (hence the "Thirteen Months of Sunshine" tourism slogan). The year number is eight years less than the year on the Gregorian calendar until September 10 or 11, after which it is seven years less. For example, for most of 2005, it will be 1997 in Ethiopia. On September 11, 2006, Ethiopia will celebrate New Year's Day (Enkutatesh) for 1999. Note:- Airline timetables are based on the 24-hour clock and use the Gregorian calendar. Behaviour Ethiopians are very proud of their culture, identity, and country. DO NOT criticise their cultural lifestyle, especially their brand of Christianity (Oriental Orthodox). In a discussion, if a westerner tries to convince an Ethiopian Christian by comparing the differences between Protestant Christianity and Ethiopian Orthodoxy, their response will often be quick and standard. They angrily remind their western friend that, "their nation was a Christian nation, while his ancestors were still 'naked, and living in trees 2000 years ago". Therefore, he has no right to lecture them about Christianity". Unless you are a Christian missionary, avoid all religious discussion, or you may risk all good will and hospitality you could have been afforded. Because they have no history of being colonized, the Ehtiopians' relationship with the westerners is free of racial animosity or old grudges. Therefore they show sincere respect, as long as they receive the same in return. However, condescending behavior is not acceptable or tolerated. Ethiopians can be short-fused if they feel they are not treated as equals. If a woman is with a man, ask the man's permission to talk to her beforehand.