The aspiration to restore the Solomonic dynasty has been a long-standing one, with efforts

spanning centuries. The restoration of Solomonic Dynasty (or Solomonic Restoration) is a period
of history in Ethiopia between 1270 to 1974. It is started from Yekuno Amlak to Emperor Haile
Selassie I, in 1270 when Emperor Yekuno Amlak became emperor and he declared to be the lineal
descent of Menelik I, means the son of King Solomon of Isra’el and Queen Sheba (mekeda) of
Ethiopia. As a result, Ethiopian monarchs from Yekuno-Amlak to Emperor Haile Selassie I, claimed
descent from of Menelik I.

Objective of assessment.

At the end of this Topic, we will be able to:

 Know the concept of early aspiration “restoration” of “Solomonic” Dynasty;

 Explore the history, challenges, and influences surrounding the restoration movement
of the Solomonic dynasty
 Understood
 Elaborate the;
 Identify

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 Historical background.

The Solomonic dynasty traces its roots back to King Solomon of Israel and the Queen of Sheba.
The Solomonic dynasty ruled Ethiopia for nearly 3,000 years, with Emperor Haile Selassie being
the last emperor before the monarchy was overthrown in 1974. The Solomonic dynasty became
the ruling family of the Ethiopian Empire in the 13th century, after the fall of the Zagwe dynasty.
The Solomonic dynasty traces its roots back to King Solomon of Israel and the Queen of Sheba.The
empire reached its peak during the reign of Emperor Haile Selassie I. In 1974, the Derg regime
overthrew the Ethiopian Empire and abolished the monarchy. This led to a period of political
instability and unrest. The late 20th century saw a resurgence of Ethiopian nationalism, which
rekindled hopes of restoring the Solomonic dynasty.

Early Aspiration of restoration of Solomonic Dynasty

The Solomonic dynasty was founded in the 13th century by Emperor Yekuno-Amlak, who claimed
descent from the biblical King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba. The Solomonic The rulers of the
“Solomonic” Dynasty claimed that they were dependents of the last king of Aksum and hence,
they were legitimate to take over state power from the “illegitimate” rulers of the Zagwe dynasty.
As the claim has no historical evidence, the name “Restoration” is put in quotation mark.

Similarly, the name “Solomonic” is placed in quotation marks because the claim of descent from
King Solomon of Israel is legendary. The claim has been elaborated in the Kibre Negest (“Glory
of Kings”) that associated Ethiopia with the Judeo-Christian tradition. The Kibre Negest claims
that Ethiopian ruling class descended from the line of Menilek I, son of the Queen of Sheba and
King Solomon of Israel. As a result, Ethiopian monarchs from Yikuno- Amlak to Emperor Haile
Silassie I claimed descent from Menilek I, This means that the ‘Solomonic’ dynasty can be said to
have lasted for over 700 years.

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List of Rulers of the Solomonic restoration

1270-85 Yekuno Amlak

1285-94 Yigba Tseyon
1299-1314 Widim Ra'ad
1314-44 Amda Tseyon
1344-72 Sayfa Arad
1372-82 Newaya Maryam
1382-1411 Dawit I
1411-14 Tewodros
1414-29 Yeshaq
1434-68 Zara Ya'qob
1468-78 Baeda Maryam
1478-94 Eskender
1494-1508 Na'od
1508-40 Lebna Dengel
1540-59 Galawdewos
1559-63 Minas
1563-97 Sarsa Dengel
1597-1603 Ya'qob
1603-04 Za Dengel
1604-07 Ya'qob
1607-32 Susenyos
1632-67 Fasiladas
1667-82 Yohannes I
1682-1706 Iyasu I, the Great
1706-08 Takla Haymanot I
1708-11 Tewoflos
1711-16 Yostos
1716-21 Dawit III
1721-30 Bakaffa
1730-55 Iyasu II
1755-69 Iyoas

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Factors that Influenced the Restoration Aspiration
The restoration of Solomonic dynasty is influenced by below mentioned.

Cultural significance.
Spiritual Beliefs.
Political Unrest.

Cultural Significance

The Solomonic dynasty is seen as a symbol of Ethiopian identity and culture. Its rich history and
traditions are an important part of the country's heritage.

Spiritual Beliefs

The Solomonic dynasty is deeply intertwined with Ethiopian Orthodoxy and Rastafarianism.
Many Ethiopians believe that restoring the dynasty could lead to greater spiritual fulfillment and
harmony.

Political Unrest

The political instability that followed the collapse of the Ethiopian Empire in 1974 has led many
to look to the stability and tradition of the Solomonic dynasty as a solution.

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The impact of Restoration movement

The restoration of the Solomonic dynasty in Ethiopia has had a significant impact on Ethiopian
society and politics. The Solomonic dynasty claims its lineage from the biblical King Solomon
and the Queen of Sheba. Here are some key points about the historical background and the
impact of the restoration:

Impact on Ethiopian Society and Politics:

Cultural Significance: The restoration of the Solomonic dynasty has helped preserve Ethiopia's
cultural heritage and traditions. It has reinforced the connection between the present Ethiopian
society and its ancient roots.
National Identity: The Solomonic dynasty represents a unifying factor for Ethiopians, fostering
a sense of national identity and pride.
Political Influence: While not holding any political power, the restored dynasty still carries
influence in Ethiopian society. It can provide guidance and support to political leaders and act as
a moral authority.
It is important to note that opinions on the restoration of the Solomonic dynasty may vary among
different individuals and groups in Ethiopian society. Some may view it as an important symbol
of national identity, while others may have different perspectives.

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Conclusions

The aspiration to restore the Solomonic dynasty is deeply rooted in Ethiopian history and culture,
and has been a driving force in the country's political, social, and spiritual landscape for centuries.
While the challenges facing the restoration movement are significant, the legacy and impact of the
dynasty continue to inspire Ethiopians to work towards a better future.