Amharic Poems Celebrating Mothers

The Divine Bond: Amharic Poetry Honoring Mothers

Motherhood is a sacred and revered concept in Amharic culture, with poets beautifully expressing their admiration, gratitude, and love for mothers through the power of words. Amharic poetry, also known as "Qené," has a long-standing tradition of celebrating the immense role mothers play in shaping individuals and communities. In this article, we will explore a selection of Amharic poems that capture the essence of the mother-child relationship.

1. "እናት" (Enat) by Kebede Mikael

እናት እናት እናት
አበባ ውኃ አረካ
ሃይማኖት ብሎ
ለህይወት እናት

This powerful poem by Kebede Mikael beautifully captures the essence of a mother's love and sacrifice. The repetition of the word "እናት" (Enat), meaning "mother" in Amharic, emphasizes the significance of the bond. It speaks of a mother who carries the weight of the world, sustaining her child like a well and enduring the hardships of life for the sake of her child's happiness.

2. "በግርግር የተሰየመው" (Begirgir Yeteseyemew) by Tsegaye Gebremedhin

በግርግር የተሰየመው
እስኪሞት ድረስ ነው
ለወደኛ ስጠብቅ
አበባው ለገደለው

This heartfelt poem by Tsegaye Gebremedhin portrays the indomitable strength of a mother. It speaks of a mother who, despite going through the hardships of life, never loses her resolve. The line "ድረስ ነው" (Deres new), meaning "is the backbone," highlights the irreplaceable role a mother plays in providing stability and support to her child.

3. "እናት" (Enat) by Mengistu Lemma

እናት እናት ሆይ
እናት እናት ሆይ
አንተ እናት ሆይ
እናት እናት ሆይ

Mengistu Lemma's poetic portrayal of a mother's love epitomizes the tenderness and affection that a child experiences. The repetition of "እናት እናት ሆይ" (Enat, Enat, hoye), meaning "mother, mother, my dear," reflects the deep emotional connection between a child and their mother. It serves as a reminder of the unconditional love and unwavering presence that define a mother's role.

Preserving the Essence of Motherhood through Amharic Poetry

Amharic poems about mothers are much more than mere words on paper; they are a reflection of the importance of mothers in Amharic culture and society. They beautifully encapsulate the deep love, selflessness, and sacrifices that mothers make for their children. These poems serve as timeless reminders of our indebtedness to our mothers and the unbreakable bond that exists between a mother and her child.

The poems mentioned above are just a glimpse into the rich heritage of Amharic poetry, where countless verses continue to be written, celebrating the extraordinary role of mothers. Whether they are written by renowned poets or everyday individuals, Amharic poems about mothers will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who cherish the extraordinary women who brought them into this world.