Long before Islam became a global religion, Ethiopia already held a special place in the hearts of early Muslims. In the year 615 CE, when the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) faced severe persecution in Mecca, a group of his followers embarked on a journey across the Red Sea, seeking refuge in the Christian Kingdom of Aksum, the heart of ancient Ethiopia. They were welcomed by the king, known in Islamic history as the Negus (al-Najashi), who granted them safety and freedom to practice their faith. This early encounter laid the foundation for Ethiopia’s long and unique relationship with Islam—a relationship that would later include Shia thought. Shia Islam arrived in Ethiopia much later, carried by merchants, travelers, and scholars from Persia, Yemen, and the Arabian Peninsula. The bustling ports along the Red Sea, such as Massawa and Zeila, became gateways for ideas and beliefs. Persian and Arabian Shia merchants brought with them the stories, rituals, and devotion of the Twelve Imams. They interacted with local communities, sharing teachings and blending their practices with the rich tapestry of Ethiopian culture. Over time, scholars settled in these regions, nurturing learning centers and spreading religious knowledge. Despite being a minority, Shia Muslims in Ethiopia maintained a distinct identity. They participated in religious and cultural life alongside the Sunni majority and the Ethiopian Orthodox Christian population. Shia communities flourished quietly in urban centers such as Addis Ababa and Dire Dawa, and in the eastern regions inhabited by Somali and Afar peoples. Throughout history, Shia Muslims in Ethiopia acted as bridges between the Horn of Africa and the broader Shia world. Trade, migration, and spiritual scholarship connected Ethiopia to Yemen, Persia, and beyond. Yet, they also adapted to the local Ethiopian context, blending traditions, language, and customs to form a unique Shia identity that is both globally connected and locally rooted. Today, the story of Shia Islam in Ethiopia is one of resilience and quiet contribution. Though numerically small, the community has enriched the spiritual and cultural diversity of the country, offering a window into a long history of faith, migration, and coexistence. From the welcoming embrace of the Negus to the modern Shia centers in Ethiopia’s cities, the journey of Shia Islam in this land tells a tale of faith, adaptation, and enduring connection across continents.