King Anbasa Wedem Solomonid of Abyssinia
Born: 847 AD
King Anbasa Wedem Solomonid was a ruler of rare brilliance, embodying wisdom, piety, and martial skill that elevated his reign and secured his legacy in the annals of Abyssinian history.
Born in 847 AD as the son of King Degna II, Anbasa grew up under the shadow of a father consumed by the burdens of kingship. Despite his preoccupations, King Degna II recognized the transformative power of education. Inspired by tales of Charlemagne, the King of the Franks, he decreed that church schools be established throughout Abyssinia. Anbasa received his education at the illustrious Church of Saint Mary of Zion in Aksum. There, he immersed himself in literature, mathematics, and theology, laying the foundation for his scholarly and spiritual pursuits. Beyond his studies, he was tutored in horsemanship, swordsmanship, and warfare strategy under the tutelage of the kingdom's marshal and master of the horse, honing the martial skills that would later define his prowess in battle.
At the age of 15, Anbasa embarked on a transformative journey to the Duchy of Armenia. This pilgrimage took him through the holy cities of Alexandria, Jerusalem, and Edessa before arriving in Taron, where he joined the Community of Saint Anthony at the Bishopric of Glak. As an Archarios (a novice monk), he dedicated himself to the ancient monastic practices established by Saint Anthony of Egypt, embracing simplicity, humility, and submission. During his time in Glak, he deepened his theological knowledge and learned Greek, further broadening his intellectual horizons.
It was during his stay in Glak that, according to legend, Anbasa experienced a divine vision. One day, he reportedly declared, "Although I've enjoyed my time here, it is time I depart, for the Lord has called upon me."