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Righteous Saint Tekle Haymanot
A Great Ethiopian Saint and Miracle Worker
Saint Tekle Haymanot is one of the most honored saints in the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church. He lived in the 13th century and is remembered for his deep holiness, miracles, and his powerful role in spreading Orthodox Christianity throughout Ethiopia.
Early Life
Saint Tekle Haymanot was born in Zorare, in the region of Shewa, to pious parents. His father, Segwa Asgad, was a priest, and his mother was named Egzi’e Haraya. Before his birth, it is said that an angel announced his coming and his future mission to serve God.
From a young age, Tekle Haymanot showed strong faith, humility, and a desire to live a pure life. He studied the Scriptures, prayed often, and followed the teachings of the Church with great devotion.
His Monastic Life
As a young man, Saint Tekle Haymanot left his home to become a monk. He went to Lake Hayq to study under Abba Iyasus Mo'a, a famous monastic teacher. There he grew in wisdom and holiness, and later became a monk himself.
After his training, he traveled across Ethiopia preaching the Gospel, encouraging repentance, and converting many people from paganism to Christianity. He also founded the famous Debre Libanos Monastery, which became a great center of learning, prayer, and spiritual life.
Miracles and Holiness
Saint Tekle Haymanot is known for performing many miracles during his life. One of the most well-known stories says that he stood for seven years on one leg in prayer and worship, after his other leg became injured. Because of this, he is often depicted in icons as a one-legged saint.
Other miracles include:
Healing the sick
Raising the dead
Casting out demons
Receiving visions of angels and saints
He lived a life of fasting, prayer, and humility, always putting God first and serving others.
His Death and Legacy
Saint Tekle Haymanot died peacefully after many years of service. He is honored as one of the greatest saints in Ethiopian history. His monastery, Debre Libanos, remains a holy place and pilgrimage site to this day.
His feast day is celebrated on 24th of Nehasé (August 30) in the Ethiopian calendar.
His Impact
A symbol of Ethiopian holiness and monasticism
A protector and intercessor for the people
A spiritual father and teacher whose prayers are still believed to work miracles today