Coptic

Coptic refers to the Copts, an ethnoreligious group primarily found in Egypt, who are followers of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria. The term "Coptic" is derived from the Greek word "Aigyptios," meaning "Egyptian." Over time, it came to specifically refer to the Christian population of Egypt.

History

The history of the Copts dates back to the early Christian period in Egypt. The Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria is one of the oldest Christian denominations in the world, founded by Saint Mark the Evangelist in the 1st century AD. The Copts played a significant role in the early development of Christianity and were instrumental in the establishment of monasticism.

Language

The Coptic language is the latest stage of the Egyptian language and was used as the liturgical language of the Coptic Orthodox Church. It is written in the Coptic alphabet, which is based on the Greek alphabet with some additional letters from the Demotic script.

Culture

Coptic culture is a blend of Ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences. The Copts have a rich tradition of Coptic art, including iconography, manuscripts, and architecture. Coptic music and hymns are an integral part of their religious practices.

Religion

The majority of Copts belong to the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria, which follows the Alexandrian Rite. There is also a smaller community of Coptic Catholics who are in communion with the Roman Catholic Church. The Coptic Orthodox Church is known for its strict adherence to traditional Christian beliefs and practices.

Persecution

Throughout history, the Copts have faced periods of persecution, particularly during the Islamic conquest of Egypt and under various Islamic caliphates. In modern times, they have experienced discrimination and violence, particularly in the context of political and social upheavals in Egypt.

Notable Copts

Some notable Copts include Pope Shenouda III, the 117th Pope of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria, and Boutros Boutros-Ghali, the sixth Secretary-General of the United Nations.

Related Pages

• Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria
• Coptic language
• Coptic alphabet
• Saint Mark
• Monasticism
• Coptic art
• Coptic Catholics
• Islamic conquest of Egypt
• Pope Shenouda III
• Boutros Boutros-Ghali