Ethiopia's fascination with Lions

An Ethiopian Lion
aka The Black Lion
Named for their distinctive man

Lions are very iconic in Ethiopia because they have always been deeply ingrained in the history, culture and religious beliefs of the Ethiopians. 

If you were to walk through Ethiopia's Capital Addis Abba, there are many Lion Motifs to be seen; for example:

Tikur Anbessa (The Black Lion Hotel)
The Largest General Hospital in Addis Ababa
Named after the Black Lion

The Lion of Judah
Important icon for the Rastafari
&
believers in Judaism and Christianity

Anbessa Bus Service 

The Abyssianian Lion (Ethiopia was formerly called Abyssia)

A closer look of the emblem shown in
the left picture

Why are Lions Important?

1. Characteristics

They are the continuing national symbol of Ethiopia's strength and perseverance, whether it be for their independence or growing economicpower.

One instance of this perseverance is recounted in the story of Emperor Tewodros II (He ruled from 1855-1868) who according to many exhibited a lion's strength, courage and protectiveness of his nation, in refusing to surrender and be taken hostage by the British and instead committed suicide.

Emperor Tewodros II
(Reigned from 1855-1868)

2. Religious Significance

Lions are also important to the Ethiopian religious identity, shown through their reverence of The Lion of Judah- especially the Ethiopian Christians and Rastafarians.

In Judaism the Lion is a symbol of the Tribe of Judah, which is important because their former monarchs are believed to be descendants of King Solomon through their first Emperor Menelik I- linking them to their closer to their faith.

Emperor Haille Selassie I
(Reigned from 1930- 1977

Furthermore, the Rastafari call Emperor Haile Selassie I The Lion of Judah- as they believe he is the reincarnation of Jesus due to his actions during his reign (1930-1974).   

The Lion of Judah
Rastafari symbol of the strength undertaken
to overcome oppression.  

Reduction in Prominence?

Unfortunately the Ethiopian Lion population is dangerously low with around 500 alive in captivity and in the wild.

Also the Lion of Judah is no longer an emblem on the Ethiopian flag and the Black Lion no longer features on Ethiopia's airline.

In conclusion, with the Ethiopian Lion becoming extinct and being less prominent- these could be indicators that Lions could be less of an icon in the future.