A widely circulated claim about a “500-year-old illegal Ethiopian copy of the Bible” is causing an internet stir, claiming it reveals “terrifying information about the human race.”[3][5][6][8] But what is the truth behind these sensational claims? Is there really a hidden text holding shocking truths, or is it just another internet hoax?

The Garima Gospels: A Glimpse into Ethiopia’s Christian Past

Although this widespread claim may be misleading, it loosely refers to ancient Ethiopian religious texts, most likely the Garima Gospels.[1][2] These manuscripts, kept at the Abba Garima Monastery in Ethiopia, are not “canonical,” but are considered the oldest surviving Ethiopian manuscripts and among the oldest complete illuminated Christian manuscripts in the world.[1][2]

Monastic tradition indicates that the first two manuscripts of the Garima Gospels were written around 500 AD.[1][2] Modern radiocarbon dating supports this, with samples from Garima 2 dating to approximately 390–570 AD, and Garima 1 to approximately 530–660 AD.[1][2] These Gospels were written in Ge’ez, an ancient South Semitic language used in the Kingdom of Aksum and still used in the Ethiopian Church.[1]

“Scary knowledge” or misinformation?

The claim that these texts reveal “terrifying knowledge” is unfounded. The Garima Gospels contain the four official Gospels, as well as supplementary material such as lists of the Gospel chapters.[1] These texts are valuable resources for biblical scholars, offering insights into the Ethiopian version of the Gospels and early Byzantine texts.[1]

The origin of the “terrifying knowledge” claim is unclear, but it appears to be an exaggerated interpretation, perhaps linked to various conspiracy theories on the internet.[3][5][6][8] It is important to note that the manuscripts are not 500 years old, but closer to 1,500 years old.[1][2]

Reminder to handle claims with caution

While the Garima Gospels are undoubtedly important historical and religious artifacts, the claim that they contain “terrifying information” should be viewed with skepticism. It reminds us of the need to critically evaluate information published online, especially that which contains sensational claims and lacks reliable sources.