Collection Spotlight: Ethiopian Prayer Scroll

By Kidus Ephrem Ayalkie

I grew up aware that Ethiopian healing and protective scrolls were important, but I did not fully understand their meaning until I saw one in person. In Ethiopian culture, these scrolls are not simply religious decorations or historical artifacts. They are deeply personal objects believed to protect individuals from illness, misfortune and spiritual harm. Written in Geʿez, an ancient language that few people today can read, they carry a sense of distance and mystery. 

I work for the Plattsburgh State Art Museum as a gallery attendant, and I found a personal connection to an Ethiopian healing scroll in the permanent collection. The scroll is about five feet long and made from animal hide with painted images and written text running down its length. Seeing it up close made the project feel real and personal, especially because of my heritage and interest in understanding the meaning behind it. 

Although I did not travel, my mother, who was in Ethiopia, helped me connect with someone who could interpret the scroll. She met with a monk who was familiar with Geʿez and had years of knowledge from church practice. He lived in Debre Birhan, a town in the Amhara region. The translation process was slow and thoughtful. The language could not be translated word for word, so the monk explained each section carefully, focusing on the spiritual meaning behind the text rather than just giving direct definitions. 

What stood out to me most was learning that the scroll was not only a prayer scroll. It included protective texts, names, and symbols meant to guard both the body and spirit. Some parts were directed toward a specific individual, which showed how personal and intentional these scrolls are. This made the scroll feel less like an object and more like a record of belief, fear, protection, and hope. 

This experience helped me see Ethiopian Christianity as something lived rather than simply practiced. Faith is woven into objects, language and family memory. Sitting with my mother and trying to understand the scroll reminded me that Ethiopian religious traditions are not frozen in the past. They continue to shape identity, belief, and meaning in the present.

The Ethiopian healing scroll and its translation can be viewed in Room 232 in the Myers Fine Arts Building. This conference room serves as a teaching classroom for the museum and can be reserved for meetings and events. Those interested in scheduling a class visit, making a reservation or contributing to knowledge about the museum’s collection can contact Kara Jefts, Manager of Collections and Academic Engagement.