Well I have to say this version of The Queen of Sheba is definitely different from the version I am familiar with. The Hebrew biblical version has no sexual connotation at all which completely changes the story. The fact that The Ethiopian version is very sexual shows a lot about Ethiopia’s values.(It also makes me wonder if the Hebrew biblical version is just trying to sugar code what seemed to be strictly platonic between the Queen of Sheba and Solomon).
Although Ethiopia is a very poor country, the nation remains very independent having a brief colonial history. I think this is strongly represented in Kebra Negasta. One powerful representation of the nation is The Queen of Sheba. She represents Ethiopia and Solomon is a man of great wisdom, so we are already presented with two very powerful figures from the beginning. The Queen of Sheba in the Ethiopian version was seduced by Solomon and conceived a child, her only son, Menyelek. This shows a special significance because this implies that Ethiopians come from Royalty; it is in their blood, and they definitely still hold these family values and show their pride today.
Side note: This can also play a part in why their Art is so unique, beautiful and full of color. These colors represent their pride.
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