What do they call Christmas holiday in Egypt 2024?

Benjamin Stewart | 2023-06-14 16:16:57 | page views:1723
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Scarlett Lee

Studied at Harvard University, Lives in Cambridge, MA
As an expert in cultural traditions and holidays, I can provide you with a detailed answer regarding the Christmas holiday in Egypt.

Egypt is a country with a rich history and a diverse population that includes both Muslims and Christians. Among the Christian population, the majority belong to the Coptic Orthodox Church, which has its own unique traditions and customs that are distinct from those of other Christian denominations.

The Coptic Orthodox Church follows the Julian calendar, which is different from the Gregorian calendar used by most of the world. As a result, the date of Christmas according to the Coptic Church falls on January 7th, rather than December 25th. This is also the case for some Orthodox Christians in countries like Ethiopia, Russia, and Serbia.

In the Coptic tradition, the Christmas season is a time of great celebration and preparation. The month leading up to Christmas is known as Kiahk, which is the ninth month in the Coptic calendar. Kiahk is considered a holy month, and it is marked by fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection. During this time, many Coptic Christians abstain from eating meat, dairy products, and fish, as a form of spiritual discipline.

The Coptic Christmas, also known as "Eid El-Milad" in Arabic, is celebrated with a variety of customs and rituals. One of the most significant is the midnight mass, which is held on January 6th, the eve of Christmas. This mass, known as "Huda Kandak," is attended by the Coptic Pope and is broadcasted on television and radio so that the faithful can participate from their homes.

On Christmas Day itself, January 7th, there is a festive atmosphere throughout Egypt. Churches are beautifully decorated, and families gather to exchange gifts and enjoy traditional foods. One of the most popular dishes during this time is "Fasoulia," which is a type of green beans cooked with garlic, lemon, and coriander. Other traditional foods include "Koshari," a mixture of rice, lentils, pasta, and tomato sauce, and "Baklava," a sweet dessert made with layers of filo pastry filled with nuts and honey.

In addition to the religious celebrations, Christmas in Egypt is also a time for community and family gatherings. Many people take this opportunity to visit relatives and friends, and there is often a festive mood in the air. The holiday season also brings with it a boost to the local economy, as businesses see an increase in sales, particularly in the food and gift sectors.

It is important to note that while the majority of Egyptians are Muslim, there is a significant Christian minority, and the Christmas holiday is recognized and respected by many in the country. The government of Egypt also takes steps to ensure that the holiday is celebrated peacefully and that the rights of the Christian community are protected.

In conclusion, the Christmas holiday in Egypt, particularly for the Coptic Orthodox community, is a time of deep religious significance and cultural celebration. The traditions and customs associated with this holiday are unique and reflect the rich history and heritage of the Coptic Church. Whether through the observance of Kiahk, the midnight mass, or the festive gatherings with family and friends, the Christmas season in Egypt is a time of joy, reflection, and community.


2024-06-17 01:43:21

Benjamin Brooks

Works at the World Health Organization, Lives in Geneva, Switzerland.
Most Egyptian Christians belong to the Coptic Orthodox Church and they have some very unique traditions for Christmas. Christmas Day isn't celebrated on the 25th December but on 7th January (like in Ethiopia and by some Orthodox Christians in Russia and Serbia). The Coptic month leading to Christmas is called Kiahk.
2023-06-14 16:16:57

Ava Richardson

QuesHub.com delivers expert answers and knowledge to you.
Most Egyptian Christians belong to the Coptic Orthodox Church and they have some very unique traditions for Christmas. Christmas Day isn't celebrated on the 25th December but on 7th January (like in Ethiopia and by some Orthodox Christians in Russia and Serbia). The Coptic month leading to Christmas is called Kiahk.
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