Ethiopian Jews

Jun 7. 2025

#EthiopianJewish

#QueenofSheba

Ethiopian Jews, also known as Beta Israel, are a distinct Jewish community from Ethiopia with a rich and complex history, culture, and spiritual tradition.

Here’s an overview of their identity, history, and current status:

#BetaIsrael

Who Are the Ethiopian Jews (Beta Israel)?

• “Beta Israel” (literally “House of Israel”) is the traditional name of Ethiopian Jews.

• They have lived in Ethiopia for centuries, practicing a form of Judaism that developed in relative isolation from Rabbinic Judaism.

• Some also refer to themselves as Falasha, though this term is now considered pejorative.

Historical Background

Origins (Theories)

There are several theories about their origins:

1. Solomonic Tradition: Many Ethiopian Jews believe they descend from the union of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba (Makeda), and their son Menelik I, who brought Judaism to Ethiopia.

2. Tribe of Dan: Some scholars suggest Beta Israel are descendants of the lost Tribe of Dan.

3. Medieval Jewish Migration: Others think they are the result of Jewish migration from Egypt or southern Arabia (Yemen) over 1,000 years ago.

Religious Practices

Traditional Ethiopian Judaism was centered on the Orit (a translation of the Torah and some other books into Ge’ez, the ancient liturgical language).

• They observed Shabbat, kashrut (kosher laws), circumcision, and biblical festivals.

They had religious leaders called Kessim (or Kes in singular), akin to priests, rather than rabbis.

Due to centuries of isolation, they were unfamiliar with post-biblical texts like the Talmud.

Aliyah and Integration in Israel

Operation Moses (1984) &

Operation Solomon (1991)

• Over 22,000 Ethiopian Jews were airlifted to Israel during these secret rescue missions.

• Additional immigration waves occurred later, including Falash Mura (descendants of Jews who converted to Christianity under pressure and now seek return to Judaism).

Today in Israel

• As of 2024, there are over 160,000 Ethiopian Jews in Israel.

• Many have integrated into society, but significant social and economic challenges remain:

• Discrimination and racism

• Higher poverty and unemployment rates

• Underrepresentation in higher education and politics

• Struggles with religious acceptance from the Orthodox Rabbinical establishment (especially for Falash Mura)

Cultural Contributions

• Vibrant music and dance styles have influenced Israeli culture.

• Annual celebration: Sigd – a unique Ethiopian Jewish holiday, now an official Israeli holiday, celebrating the giving of the Torah and longing for Jerusalem.