The relationship between the Amhara emperor Yekuno Amlak (the 13th-century founder of the Solomonic dynasty) and Saint Tekle Haymanot is characterized by a blend of historical alliance and religious legend. According to medieval hagiographies and Ethiopian tradition, Tekle Haymanot was a pivotal spiritual mentor and political ally who facilitated Yekuno Amlak’s rise to power. It is often claimed that the Saint provided the religious legitimacy necessary for Yekuno Amlak to overthrow the last kin