The Samaritans are an ethno-religious group who trace their origins back to ancient Israel. They are known for their unique religious practices and their adherence to the Samaritan Pentateuch, which is a version of the first five books of the Hebrew Bible.
History
- Origins: The Samaritans claim descent from the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, asserting they are the true descendants of the ancient Kingdom of Israel. According to their tradition, they maintained their religious practices after the Assyrian conquest of the northern kingdom in 722 BCE, when many Israelites were exiled.
- Conflict with Judaism: The Samaritans and the Jews have had a long history of theological and political disputes. One of the most significant conflicts was over the location of the Temple. While Jews recognized Jerusalem as the site, Samaritans believed the proper place for worship was at Mount Gerizim, near present-day Nablus.
- Modern Era: After the destruction of the Samaritan Temple on Mount Gerizim by John Hyrcanus in the second century BCE, the community experienced numerous hardships, including massacres and forced conversions. By the 20th century, their numbers had dwindled significantly, but efforts have been made to preserve their culture and religion.
Beliefs and Practices
- Scripture: The Samaritan Pentateuch, which they believe is the authentic version of the Torah, differs slightly from the Masoretic Text used by Jews. Their religious practices are centered around the laws and commandments found within these texts.
- Worship: Samaritans worship on Mount Gerizim, which they consider the holiest site. They celebrate the Passover with a unique ritual involving the sacrifice of a lamb, which is one of the few remaining animal sacrifices practiced today.
- Language: Traditionally, the Samaritans spoke Samaritan Aramaic, but today, they mainly speak Arabic, with Hebrew used for religious purposes.
Current Status
- Population: Today, there are fewer than 1,000 Samaritans, split between Holon in Israel and Mount Gerizim in the West Bank.
- Community Efforts: The Samaritan community has made efforts to preserve their culture through education, intermarriage within the community, and outreach to inform others about their heritage. They also participate in archaeological digs on Mount Gerizim to uncover their historical roots.
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