To appreciate the text, one must understand its origins. The Wudase Mariam is not a single book written by one author but an anthology compiled over centuries. Its core is attributed to St. Epiphanius of Cyprus, St. Cyril of Alexandria, and other early Church Fathers, drawing heavily from the biblical Song of Songs, the Psalms, and the New Testament narratives of Mary’s life.
In the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, Mary holds an exalted position. She is revered as the Tabot (Ark of the Covenant) of the New Testament, the pure vessel who bore God the Son. The Wudase Mariam reflects this high Mariology, celebrating her as:
Historically, the text was read in monasteries and churches during specific feast days dedicated to the Theotokos, such as:
For centuries, access was limited to clergy and monastics who understood Ge’ez. The desire for a Wudase Mariam in English PDF is a modern movement toward inclusivity and global faith.
Q: Is the Wudase Mariam considered Scripture? A: No. It is a liturgical and devotional text, like the Psalms are canonical but the Wudase Mariam is not part of the biblical canon. However, it is deeply revered. wudase mariam in english pdf
Q: Can a Catholic or Protestant read the Wudase Mariam? A: Yes. While it is specifically Orthodox Tewahedo, Roman Catholics (especially those who pray the Rosary) will find it spiritually enriching. Protestants who honor Mary as “blessed among women” may also appreciate it, though they should understand its high devotional style.
Q: Is there an audio version to accompany the PDF? A: Yes. Search YouTube for “Wudase Mariam English audio.” Many diasporan priests have recorded readings. Listen alongside your English PDF to learn pronunciation of key Ge’ez exclamations like “O Sakota!” (O Pure One!).
Q: How long does it take to recite one day’s section? A: Approximately 20-30 minutes if reading slowly and prayerfully.
Because the text is religious literature often distributed by the Church, you can often find reliable PDF versions through official channels. To appreciate the text, one must understand its origins
1. Ethiopian Orthodox Church Websites The most reliable translations come from official church jurisdictions. Check the websites of dioceses in your area (such as the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church Diocese in the USA, Canada, or Europe). They often have a "Literature" or "Resources" section.
2. Sunday School Archives Many Sunday School associations publish diglot (side-by-side) or translated versions for youth education. Searching for "Ethiopian Orthodox Sunday School Wudase Mariam PDF" can yield high-quality results.
3. Online Religious Libraries
Sites like mekanehiwot.org or ethiopianorthodox.org historically host archives of liturgical books in English and Amharic.
Search Tip: When searching on Google, try specific queries like "Wedasie Mariam English translation PDF" or "Praise of Mary Ethiopian Orthodox PDF" to bypass unrelated results. Historically, the text was read in monasteries and
Prayer for Forgiveness and Mercy
To be recited after the praises:
"O Mother of God, do not remember my sins. I have sinned against heaven and before you. But you are the mercy-seat of the world. Stretch out your holy hands to your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, and say to Him: 'My Son, for the sake of the milk you nursed from me, forgive this sinner.' He will not refuse you, for He honors you above all creation. Amen. Let it be to me according to your word."
Closing Doxology
"Praise be to the Father, who chose you. Praise be to the Son, who dwelt in you. Praise be to the Holy Spirit, who overshadowed you. One God, forever and ever. Amen."