National Geographic reported that in 1930, as the dawn cleared in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on November 2, it met everyone getting ready for the special historical event to take place that morning - The Coronation of The Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah.
Together with his Empress, His Imperial Majesty, Haile Selassie I spent the night before in prayer and devotion at the most high alter. During the morning chanting of praises resonated and dancing priests with pulsating drum rhythms joined in. Ancient Jewish rites which were in use at the time of King David, were re-lived right there before the ark of the covenant, the report stated. The Coptic Church in all its impressive might and splendor evoked biblical rituals that seemed to roll the centuries back.
As the time came for this coronation, which is the most important event in the Rastafarian Calendar today, His Imperial Majesty entered the ceremonial hall attired in white silk. He was escorted by aides and clergy and was preceded by waving incense burners.
"The Emperor's name was Anglicized as Power of the Holy Trinity and he gave his sacred pledge to uphold the Orthodox religion of the Church, to support and administer the laws of the country for the betterment of the people, to maintain the integrity of Ethiopia, and to found schools for developing the Spiritual and Material welfare of her subjects," National Geographic reported.
Once His Imperial Majesty took his place on the throne, his holiness Abuna Kyrillos broke the solemn silence with the following decree:
"Ye princes and ministers, ye nobles and chiefs of the army, ye soldiers and people of Ethiopia, and ye doctors and chiefs of the clergy, ye professors and priests, look ye upon our Emperor Haile Selassie the First, descended from the dynasty of Menelik the First, who was born of Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, a dynasty perpetuated without interruption from the time of King Sehale to our times."
Following ancient customs as when Samuel anointed David, chanting and prayers to the God of Gods rose from priestly voices and wonderful gifts bestowed. The Abuna then anointed His Imperial Majesty's head with oil and further declared:
"That God make this Crown a Crown of Glory. That, by the Grace and the blessing which we have given, you may have an Unshaken Faith and a Pure Heart, in order that you may inherit the Crown Eternal. So be it."
