A picture of a Muslim Sheikh taken inside an Ethiopian church.


 In the beautiful region of Amhara, you'll find a heartwarming example of Muslim-Christian solidarity in the charming town of Gondar. If you take a stroll from Gondar to 'Smada', just an hour's walk from 'Wedda', you’ll arrive at a picturesque spot called 'Arata', surrounded by breathtaking mountains.


Arata is an ancient village with a fascinating history—it's believed to have been founded by the great master Sheikh Bakib Ahmed in the 12th century. Legend has it that Sheikh Bakib Ahmed came to the rescue of the king’s son and relieved the local residents from paying taxes. How amazing is that?


In Arata, where the community worships the god Messa, you'll also find the historic Arata Gabriel Mekane Selam Church. These sacred spaces have stood side by side for centuries, with people coming together to pray, engaging in both the call to prayer and heartfelt prostration. The locals built these mosques and churches with their own hands, working together to carry sand, quarry stones, pave paths, and pour cement.


In this village, there’s no dividing line of “yours or ours.” Muslims and Christians live in harmony, dreaming, teaching, and celebrating life’s special moments together. They have been celebrating births and baptisms as one community for many years, reconciling differences, visiting the sick, and coming together to honor those who have passed.



The Arata Sheikh Bekaib Ahmed Mosque and the Arata Gabriel Monastery are right next to each other in 'Smada Wegada.' Here, people of all faiths come together to pray in peace. Their mutual respect for one another has allowed their unique heritages and histories to flourish side by side, keeping the spirit of the village alive for generations.


This story highlights the significance of Arata, a village that was quite famous in the 12th century. Sheikh Bekaib Ahmed not only played a significant role in governance but was also a talented writer, contributing to fields such as medicine, art, and Islamic literature.


While images of this remarkable figure are rare, one can find a beautiful painting on the inner wall of the ancient Mekane Selam Arata Gabriel Monastery. It depicts Sheikh Bakib Ahmed leading his followers to the king, and his name is recorded in the church’s ancient documents. This treasured artwork, which celebrates the saint’s teachings, has been lovingly preserved by the Orthodox Tewahedo Church for four centuries, welcoming both Muslims and visitors from afar.


I thought it was important to share this inspiring story, as it shows how a rich and beautiful history can teach us so much about unity and friendship!

Location: Gondar, Ethiopia

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