BITU OF ETHIOPIA AND HIS HERESY

Bitu is the only heretic of Ethiopian origin whose name and thoughts were mentioned in the Māṣḥāfā mǝśṭir (Book of Mystery), which provides extensive assertions in response of various heresies of individual heretics and religious sects from the perspective of Oriental Orthodoxy. His heresy relates to eschatology and severely contradicts some of the main concerns that the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church believes and teaches regarding eschatological doctrine. St. Giyorgis of Gaśśǝč̣č̣a (1364-1424 A.D), one of the scholars of his time and author of several theological and hymnal books, including the Māṣḥāfā mǝśṭir has disputed against him in public at the court of King Dawit II (1382-1413 A.D). The homily he later composed in response of Bitu's heresy reflects the main points of the debate. Correspondingly, the Vita, composed by later hagiographers to commemorate his apostolic mission, virtues, and scholarly achievements, gives important information on the background and end of the dispute. In a way, the story shows the dispute resolution and justice system of the time. Though, in present Ethiopia, little is known about Bitu’s identity and beliefs. The purpose of this article is to deal with the story and end of the controversy based on the witnesses of the sources mentioned earlier and related references. The eschatological teachings of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church are also briefly discussed to provide a better understanding of the controversy.