Performing (with) Multiple-Text Manuscripts in the Making of the Ethiopian Sainthood: Matter and Devotion in Ethiopia between the Fourteenth Century and the Present Time
The present contribution offers an insight into the formation and development of multiple-text manuscripts (MTMs) transmitting works earmarked for liturgical and healing performances connected with the veneration of saints in Ethiopia. The time span covered ranges between the fourteenth century and the present time. Themes related to the role of manuscripts in the making of Ethiopian sainthood and keeping it alive will be explored. The main points discussed are (1) the acquisition and structuring of a corpus of hagiographic texts in MTMs; (2) the perception of these MTMs in connection with the construction of Ethiopian sainthood; (3) their function in the authentication to sainthood in Ethiopia; and (4) their use in liturgical and healing performances.