Belay analyses how “law” is used in Romans (2:12–16; 2:17–29; 3:21–31; 7:7–8:11) and contrasts this with a threefold interpretation preserved in the Ethiopian Church. ‘This tradition is largely overlooked in modern scholarship, but it is important as it distinguishes between Həgga ləbbunā (law of conscience), Həgga oritə(law of Moses), and Həgga wangelə (law of the Gospel),’ he explains.
Ethiopic tradition offers new insight
According to Belay, this framework ‘presents unique challenges and has not been thoroughly studied by modern interpreters, yet it offers a coherent lens on Paul’s thought.’ The Ethiopian understanding aligns with Paul’s references to “the law written in the heart” (Rom. 2:12–16), the Torah (Rom. 2–3), and “the law of the Spirit of life in Christ” (Rom. 8:2).
By analysing Həgga Ləbbunā, Həgga Oritə and Həgga Wanəgēlə, Belay argues that the Ethiopic tradition offers a distinct threefold perspective deserving of scholarly attention. ‘It brings together diverse interpretations and shows how they can be read as three aspects of God’s law within the text.’
Relevance for churches in Ethiopia
Beyond its academic contribution, the study highlights implications for church relations in Ethiopia. ‘While denominations share many features, the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahədo Church is often misunderstood by others due to its unique interpretation of God’s law and its incorporation of certain Jewish elements,’ says Belay. ‘A clearer understanding of this tradition may support dialogue, coexistence and mutual understanding.’
Methodology and reception history
Belay uses a socio-rhetorical interpretive methodology, focusing on inner, inter, and social and cultural textures to analyse Romans. The study also draws on reception history to trace how interpretations of the law have developed over time in Ethiopia. The andǝmta interpretive tradition, which ‘inherently incorporates significant elements of reception’, plays a key role in deepening this analysis.
Photo: Image from Ura Kidane Mihret Monastery – Lake Tana near Bahir Dar, Ethiopia. (Source: Wikicommons)