What decisions did Emperor Zara Yaqob make at the Council of Debre Mitmaq in 1450?

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At the Council of Debre Mitmaq in 1450, Emperor Zara Yaqob made the following significant decisions regarding the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church:

  • Observance of the Sabbath: The emperor officially conceded to the practice of observing the Judaic Sabbath on Saturday in addition to the traditional Sunday observance, a belief that had already gained widespread support among the followers of the monk Ewostatewos.12
  • Church Reform: Alongside this concession, Zara Yaqob initiated rigorous reforms within the church to eliminate perceived abuses. These measures included the use of strong disciplinary actions and the execution of leaders belonging to sects deemed heretical by the state.12

These actions were part of the emperor's broader efforts to consolidate the Christian state and maintain national unity during his reign.12