Prophetic Discourses and Power Shift in Ethiopian History

Abstract

The main intention in this article is to critically analyze the role of prophecy for power shift in Ethiopia in history. Data collected from archives, traveler accounts, and history documents were critically analyzed. Critical historical discourse analysis was used as a framework and methodology of analysis. Interpretation, symbolization and operationalization of dreams, prophecies, and “told spiritual accounts” by prominent mystics and interpreters had been the critical turning-points of Ethiopians in history. Their role was consequential and influential. Royal families used to “invent, disseminate and operationalize” dreams, prophecies, and superstitious practices. Consequently, their instinctive wish for abundant fulfillment and power grant had been gained by “revelations” and “connections” of each interpretation with supernatural powers. To scale up the benefit, ecclesiastical intervention had been badly sought out. The prophetic discourses and ideologies had been very instrumental in Ethiopian theopolitics, sociocultural practices, and power use.