Where do we go next?
November 12th, 2006 at 6:53 amIs it time to speak out?
We have been seriously considering approaching the Lebanese government regarding our concerns and issues and getting an official response. Every indication suggests that the government regards the Jewish community as any other minority in Lebanon and as such, we expect a favorable response. It’s important to note that in history and during the civil unrest, every community in Lebanon suffered, every community was attacked, victimized, bombed, and killed and as such, we hope people dismiss any preconceived notion that Jews in particular were victimized or suffered when in reality, we all suffered, all Lebanese, regardless of their religious background were targeted.
We have been considering speaking with the government as well as leading religious and social figures and collecting their formal responses to our campaign and site. We would also like to know the status of the famous Maghen Avraham Synagogue, which awkwardly enough, is situated directly under the Grand Serail- the seat of Lebanon’s Prime Ministry and Council of Ministers.
What do you think? Should we start mobilizing? Who do we contact and speak to? Any particular political, social, or religious figure?
Joseph Matta Said,
November 12, 2006 @ 2:20 pm
It’s a tricky one … But I think it’s the people first and foremost.
I haven’t lived in Lebanon for years. And Like many I no longer understand the politics.
This is one of many aspects of the Lebanese culture that has been forgotten or neglected.
This is one issue the majority of the people have to be reminded of … Through social figures and bodies, not one in particular. This should be a collaborative effort.
I’m sure the Lebanese Jewish community have contacts who know where and how to push the right buttons.
I don’t think there’s a timing issue regarding the approach..
I believe it’s easier to reach everyday people … politicians are difficult, let alone the Lebanese type…
Ultimately Lebanon is for all lebanese regardless of religious or political beliefs …Lebanon is a unique formula, a simple recipe that only works with all ingredients and elements in place… Joseph Matta
phil Said,
November 13, 2006 @ 4:53 am
Hi there,
First I would like to congratulate you for the initiative of putting up this website. I completely support your mission.
Second, I believe you should bypass local politicians, and only establish contact with religious figures in Beirut. Having the moutran, the metropolite, the mufti, the cheikh, etc publicly support your cause (and why wouldn’t they?) would be a better shot than making politicians overcome their interests and calculations to endorse it.
Good luck and please keep us posted.
Sami M.K Said,
November 13, 2006 @ 4:01 pm
Good idea.
You should contact the government, I don’t know who - but you should continue contacting the government.
There are a couple a things that should be demanded for the Lebanese Jewish community:
-Restoration of the Maghen Abraham Synagogue
-The building of a Jewish school for studies of Hebrew & the Torah
-Completely restoring the Jewish cemetery
-Giving the community a representation in the government
-Selecting a chief rabbi, like the Druze have a chief sheikh
-Supporting Jewish needs for a thriving community, a kosher shop at Wadi Abou Jmil for instance.
-Jewish buildings should also be erected in Sidon which also has a great deal of Jews descending from there. I’ve heard of an old synagogue that stands in Sidon, but I haven’t yet seen any pictures to proove it.
Liza Said,
November 14, 2006 @ 8:51 am
If speaking out won’t create problems for the Jewish community, then it is definitely something that should be done. As you mentioned, first and foremost, these people are Lebanese, and are no less deserving of assistance than any other community. In a democracy, it is always important to use your voice (whether individual or collective) in order to better your environment, as such change can be beneficial to all.
SG Said,
November 14, 2006 @ 10:15 am
You should of course first go through the local community and still living in Beirut and make sure that any demands made to the politicians for religious leaders fits what they want.
Magen Avraham is in need of serious repairs, but the cemetary is not in a bad shape. A Shia woman from Baalbek looks after the place.
It is very important that the funds be raised to fix the Synagogue building.
keep it standing.
Fawaz Maski Said,
November 14, 2006 @ 9:42 pm
As a Lebanese, I would love to see the reestablishment of the Jewish community of Lebanon.
Most Lebanese know that the Jewish Lebanese community didn’t move to Israel and most don’t follow nor support the Zionist movement, so it would be easer to merge with the general public.
As Lebanese we are all one and we wouldn’t be able to function without each other.
Salam and Good Luck, hopefully soon we can all have a big party at Wadi Abou Jmil !!
P.S to Sami M.K
You need to put your foot in the door 1st before you demand anything form anyone, don’t you think?
A Muslim Observer Said,
November 15, 2006 @ 6:24 pm
go for it.. though keep in mind that any Jewish attempts for reviving the once great community on Lebanese land should clearly disavow itself of any Israeli/Zionism ideology.. given the current situation, Jewish Zionism amidst Lebanese soil can lead to terrible consequences… then again the approach you use should be very well thought out, prominent parliament members should be spoken to rather than paid phone operators..
george Said,
November 15, 2006 @ 11:39 pm
Its about time that the Maghen Avraham temple should be restored and put back to use. Im not sure there is a minyan to be able to re-activate services though. From what i have read thru this site it seems that the Lebanese Jews residing in Canada seem to be the most “Lebanese” and the most “Jewish”, maybe the community there could help. I am 100% positive that every single Lebanese person would wholeheartedly support this decision to welcome back our brothers and to show the world that we are Lebanese first then Jewish, Muslim and Christians after that. We also want to prove that Judaism is a religion, and that Judaism is NOT necessarily aggressive distorted Zionism that we percieve it today unfortunately.
As the administrator said, contacting the religious groups would be the best since this is a religious issue. In fact, i believe that the Shi’ite groups would be the first people open to this subject. Good luck and “next year in Beirut!”
Samer Saliba Said,
November 16, 2006 @ 12:03 pm
It is a good thing to see this website. I am Lebanese but don’t know a thing about the Jews in Lebanon. The first thing you should do is appear on the Lebanese TV so that people would know more about you, and the most important is that you should declare that you don’t support Zionism. Since you don’t have much appearance, then it is absolutly that many people are interested in knowing more about you, like me. It is so sure that you should rebuilt all the Jewish symboles like the Synagogue and Jewish religious shops and in places where there are many Lebanese like in the Beirut downtown. The first thing to do is contact the religious figures and show it on TV so people would know you more and relate you with their religious leaders. Politicians comes next as they would help you restore or build Jewish symbols.
A Lebanese Observer Said,
November 17, 2006 @ 3:32 pm
I am all the way for the rebuilding of the Synagogue and the School.
However, regarding the recent circumstances, I would advise to be careful and tactful.
I personally have doubts whether the Zionists will let you to rebuild the Synagogue, and hence the Jewish Community in Lebanon. I am afraid that even if the Synagogue was rebuilt after the “ok” of all the religious figures in Lebanon, there would attempts to ruin/bomb the site, most probably by men used by the Zionists. Of course, this act would be used by International politics and zionists, to tell the world that the Lebanese are being anti-Semitic and most probably will blame the Muslims for the acts of ruining/bombing the Synagogue. Afterwhich, the last of the Jews will be deported (the final stage of the plan of the Zionists). This happens in other countries, so I wouldn’t disregard that such a scenario wouldn’t happen here in Lebanon.
Having all these issues in your mind, you should proceed.
Student Said,
November 17, 2006 @ 3:57 pm
Even though the youth has never lived with the Jewish community, it is not necessarily ignorant of lebanon’s pluralistic social fabric. The particularity of Lebanon -compared to Arab countries of the region- is that people - and the Youth in the first place- do discuss things freely (one can refer to the rising number of lebanese contributors in Haaretz’ forums while writers from Arab countries which signed peace with Israel are quasi inexistant). All this to say that even when Lebanon is at war with Israel, lebanese people are talking about the difference between a Jew and an Israeli or a Sionist. Lebanese are taking a step forward towards knowing the “other”. Therefore I think that the public opinion should hear about the lebanese Jewish community more often. Starting with the religious top figures is an excellent start. However, you should not depend on local political “zaim”s because they will only worsen things by perverting the issue from national to “personal”. I would like to also add that many actors from the civil society are concerned with the existence of the Jewish community in Lebanon and thus promote awareness about the difference between Judaism and Sionism. So working with the religious top figures (el Sheikh Muhammed Fadl Allah, for instance) and the religious institutions, the civil society and the public opinion/media should be a good start.
John O' Said,
November 18, 2006 @ 1:58 am
Good Luck, I’d love to see the Synagog in beirut stand again along side mosques and churches. Doesnt Lebanon boast about beeing multi-religiouse?! Judaism should be revived Officialy in Lebanon. Problem is, how would the people react? we dont want MORE sectarian violence in The Lebanon!
Again…Good Luck
Cheers
R. Sahyoun Said,
November 18, 2006 @ 3:52 pm
Making contacts with the religious authorities is a wise step to take and is the most likely to yield results if anything is likely to yield results.
Making contacts with the government on the other hand seems irrelavent. Their response is known beforehand. They will state that they look at Lebanese Jews the same way they look at other minorities and no extra steps need to be taken at the moment.
I wish this works but I have my doubts; especially in times like these.
Anon Said,
November 18, 2006 @ 9:13 pm
Why are some of you so keen to distinguish betweeen Jews and Zionists? Why are you so hostile to Jews having their own country - Israel?. That is simply what Zionism means. Who are these demonic Zionists who would destroy the synagogue if ever it were rebuilt? In your imagination, I fear. Time to get real. If you want a thriving Jewish community in Lebanon again you have to let it be free to be itself - and that means let it support Zionism if it wants to.
Student Said,
November 19, 2006 @ 1:31 pm
Dear Anon,
the implantation of Israel in the region is the cause of most major crisis Lebanon has endured until now. And by that I do not mean that Lebanon specifically opposes Israel but that the consequences of putting up the state of Israel are very tangible in Lebanon. The arrival of Palestinians to Lebanon tore the lebanese society apart and played a key role in making the civil war happen. At the same time, it stimulated directly or indirectly most of lebanese-israeli conflicts.
I know that today in the West, opposing to Sionism is equal to opposing to Judaism. But in this region -which suffered the direct effects of Sionism- one should be more delicate. Lebanese do not deny the right of Israel to exist -as long as it does not disturb the existence of Lebanon. but then again, could Israel not do so?
Lady N. Said,
November 19, 2006 @ 3:49 pm
Greetings to all.
I’m a Christian 19 y.o girl, but I’m aquainted with some jewish friends (not Lebanese). I would have loved to have jewish Lebanese friends, but unfortunately, they’re not much found in Lebanon publically… and this breaks my heart. Everyone should be allowed to live freely like all comunities.
… Plus, if you present something feasible with a detailed plan, they wouldnt have a decent reason to refuse.
Therefore, I encourage you to hold contacts with any political figure… I’m sure some would come in handy (especially before election times
I truly hope it could work out, this will only increase the variety in Lebanon and give a fair heritage to one of the oldest communities.
Bechor Said,
November 20, 2006 @ 7:54 am
Mr Lebanese Observer, you wrote:
“I personally have doubts whether the Zionists will let you to rebuild the Synagogue, and hence the Jewish Community in Lebanon. I am afraid that even if the Synagogue was rebuilt after the “ok” of all the religious figures in Lebanon, there would attempts to ruin/bomb the site, most probably by men used by the Zionists. Of course, this act would be used by International politics and zionists, to tell the world that the Lebanese are being anti-Semitic and most probably will blame the Muslims for the acts of ruining/bombing the Synagogue.”
Come now, this is a groundless conspiracy theory, and nothing more. Israel was created to protect Jews worldwide, not to hurt them.
I am, myself, a proud Jew and a Zionist. That is not to say, however, that I do not want to see Lebanon’s Jewish community rebuilt.
To the administrator of this website:
I would like very much to see the Lebanese Jewish community rebuilt. May I suggest, as others have said, bypassing the politicians for now and speaking to religious and social leaders. Another thing, which I do not think has been mentioned, is trying to gain media attention. Send letters to some of the Lebanese newspapers and TV channels, and request some sort of publicity or an interview.
Also, I am currently the head of a small, mostly Zionist, Jewish community. If you are going to be raising money for the reconstruction of the Magen Avraham synagogue, then I will personally donate towards that cause, and request the members of my community to do the same.
Regards,
Bechor.
Liza Said,
November 20, 2006 @ 8:03 am
Dear Student,
You say that Israel has been the greatest source of crisis for Lebanon. How about the Syrian occupation, and then following Syria’s forced pullout, the assassinations and attempted assassinations of many anti-Syrian personalities, whether it be politicians such as Rafik Hariri or media personalities? What about the fact that Hizbullah (most likely acting as Iran’s proxy) used Lebanese territory to attack Israel, dragging the region into war this summer? I’m not saying that Israel is innocent (and I am Israeli), but to blame Israel for everything when there are so many other factors and players involved is to ignore the bigger picture, I think.
A Lebanese Observer Said,
November 20, 2006 @ 7:40 pm
Let’s not give way to heated, endless arguments and debates about the past. I personally am giving my point of view. I do not want to argue. I am for the rebuilding of the Jewish Synagogue. I do have fears and doubts as to how it will be implemented. That is why I suggest looking at this issue from all the grounds and perspectives. I also suggest understanding the Lebanese people and helping them to better know the Jews, specially the young. Let’s not merely say to the Lebanese people, “what you’re saying is wrong”, instead try to understand why these Lebanese people are saying what they’re saying, and identify with them and their struggles, and see how/what they think about Jews and why they think about the Jews or Zionists in so-and-so way, and look at their issues from their perspective and how they see it.
Bechor Said,
November 21, 2006 @ 4:54 am
I definitely agree with Lebanese Observer in this case.
I think you have to win the people over by educating them. Some things you could do:
1) Contact some of the older Lebanese Jews, contact some of the moderate TV stations and try to organize some sort of program about the history of the Jews in Lebanon and their contributions to the country.
2) The internet. Virtually the entire world is connected to the internet, and its a great way to raise awareness. You have, obviously, started doing this already by creating this blog. In my opinion, you should advertise this blog on Lebanese forums (such as http://www.onelebanon.com/forum/index.php? perhaps).
3) Lastly, speaking to religious and social leaders would undoubtedly be a help in winning over the Lebanese population.
If you are going to do this, it is going to take real effort, a lot of time, and in all likelihood, money (as everything does, these days).
david smiaka Said,
November 21, 2006 @ 7:06 am
it time to put all the hatred in the side and stop calling
“names” i am lebanse jew i still love lebanon [i born there]
and the pepole that live there so why are thre so much hatred
aginst us i also have many reson for haterd but i dont
it dosnt go no were
Khalil Said,
November 24, 2006 @ 11:01 am
Does anyone know any Lebanese Jews in the Boston or New York area?
Great idea about approaching the Jewish community in Lebanon and establishing contacts with other religious leaders.
There should also be a delegation formed to do this.
David Smaika where do you live?
khalil
Go for it Said,
November 26, 2006 @ 3:55 pm
Well….you should contact religious figures and more so the Muslim ones than the Christian ones. They will readily accept, maybe not so much as to be nice, but rather they will see this as a PR opportunity.
Hizballah has publicly toured Lebanon with that Jewish group which denounces Israel’s right to exist (Forgot their name)..They have declared that they have nothing against Jews but rather against Zionists. So if you get them on the bandwagon, then truly you should encounter no problems whatsover….
Bechor Said,
November 26, 2006 @ 9:30 pm
To the Administrator,
I highly recommend that you keep your group out of politics. Jewish communities should have diversity of ideas and opinions - this is what has made Judaism so great.
That is why, I urge you NOT to follow the advice offered by “Go for it.”
“Hizballah has publicly toured Lebanon with that Jewish group which denounces Israel’s right to exist (Forgot their name)..They have declared that they have nothing against Jews but rather against Zionists.”
Rejecting ANYONE’S right to exist is a ghastly and cruel thing to do. I recommend that you stick to the positives of the Lebanese Jewish community. Stay out of politics - that is what your mission statement advocates. Whether a Jew is a Zionist or not is irrelevant, though if you think about it, any Jew who was a ZIonist would go to Israel instead of Lebanon.
In addition, I would like to say that my offer in raising funds to go towards the rebuilding of the Magen Avraham Synagogue, or simply the restoration of the Lebanese Jewish community, still stands if you desire it. I can’t say that it will be a lot, but I am sure that many of the Jews in my community would donate at least a little to help our brothers in Lebanon. =)
Arabian Knight Said,
November 27, 2006 @ 7:22 pm
Go for IT, first of all you might be referring to Neturei Karta a, a group of decent God fearing jews. The implications that your comment carry are seriously low and a hit below the belt, so typical of oppertunism and trying to play one faction against the other for nothing more than petty personal gain. I for one am all for everyone’s right to live. Having said this i am by no means a zionist, as a matter of fact i think it is a clear example of hijacking the whole “israelite” religion. Bechor statement is clearly self contradictory within the whole context of this discussion. Please allow me to clarify. Many jews who commented here clearly expressed that they want to live as jews WITHIN A LEBANESE context , i.e. living together , muslims, christians , and jews under one flag . This in my book translates into “we all live together” . Why then do you want a country for the jews? Tell me please, is Irael the Vatican of the jews? cuz last i heard jerusalem has been , thanks to the governing authorities kept far from ‘HOLY’. Point, please stop using religion as your excuse every time you wish to express an opinion that somehow tries to legitimize Israel. Its getting really old and tired. Fact still remains, its a deepp held conviction of mine that they way you worship your creator is your own choice because ultimately you will stand before him alone, meanwhile he has given us a choice, either we co-exist in peace and tolerance, not necissarily deep love! or we go on wiping each other out till there is no one left. JEWS of lebanon, by all means come out and be heard ! but its my humble opinion which you can take or discard, now might not be the best time. The government have way too much on their plate. Lets all pray for peace in this beautiful land. Ameen.
george Said,
November 28, 2006 @ 1:26 pm
Admin, please do not let this site turn into another forum of hate and political racism. Mazaltov to all of our people.
Battal Agha Said,
November 28, 2006 @ 6:20 pm
Why is it that at the end the discussion evolves around the right of Israel to exist??? We started this discussion about re-constructing the Maghen Abraham Synagogue and ended with Israel… Come on, move-on people! Why can’t you accept jews same as you have shiites, sunnis, druze, maronites, orthodox, etc etc.
Bechor Said,
November 29, 2006 @ 1:51 pm
Hello Arabian Knight,
I do not seek to lead this discussion off-track any further, so I will keep my response brief.
You write:
“Many jews who commented here clearly expressed that they want to live as jews WITHIN A LEBANESE context , i.e. living together , muslims, christians , and jews under one flag . This in my book translates into “we all live together” .”
And indeed, I wholeheartedly support their right to live safely in any country they desire.
“Why then do you want a country for the jews? Tell me please, is Irael the Vatican of the jews?”"
I want a country for the Jews because I, like all other Zionists, believe that we are one people - one nation. As a people who has been opressed and persecuted endlessly throughout our history, I feel that the time has come for us to be granted the ability to govern and defend ourselves.
However, just as I do not oppose Italians living in Australia, or Japanese living in India, I do not oppose Jews living in Lebanon - and certainly not if that is the country which they love!
“Point, please stop using religion as your excuse every time you wish to express an opinion that somehow tries to legitimize Israel.”
What kind of a point is this? I have not used religion to legitimize Israel once in my whole life! I do not cite the Torah for our claim to the land of Israel, but rather, our historical connection, and an uninterrupted Jewish presence in the land.
I made one very simple recommendation: Stay out of politics. A Jew is a human being just like everyone else, and should be allowed to make up his own mind regarding his political views without having the Jewish community force their own upon him. If the individual Jews of Lebanon decide to take an anti-Zionist stance, then so be it. They remain my brothers in faith, and we share our ancestory and traditions - a bond which now amount of politics will remove. It is for this reason that I offer my assistance, and no other.
david .s Said,
December 1, 2006 @ 9:24 pm
hello kalil i live in florida
Ghandi Said,
December 2, 2006 @ 6:49 am
Great idea, I support the efforts of the Lebanese Jews to claim their rights in Lebanon and have the Synagogue rebuilt and who knows maybe in the near future have representatives in the Lebanese parliment like all other sects, maybe with this effort we can come closer to peace between Israel and Lebanon I hope in my lifetime.
Mazaltov and Mabrook !!
Best of luck
From a Lebanese Muslim Christian Jewish
M Said,
December 6, 2006 @ 2:10 am
Whatever your decision, please know that there are many Lebanese who would love to see the local Jewish community regain its glory.
I’ve been to the synagogue, I’ve seen old pictures of it, it once was a splendid temple.
We’re with you 100 percent.
I’m a Maronite, btw.
Hassan Zaatari Said,
December 22, 2006 @ 9:15 pm
I really do not understand your fear and reluctance. Lebanese Muslims and Christians alike differentiate between Jews and Israelis. One does not mean the other. As a Lebanese Jew, you have every right as any other Lebanese holding the Lebanese identity. So, what is the obstacle here? You are making as we say in Lebanese “Min el 7abby, 2ibby”
Just be who you are. There are many Lebanese Jews still living in Lebanon, maybe not as many as before, but also Christians immigrated as well as muslims. The only difference is that the jews community was initially small in size in Lebanon compared to other communities, and that was the main reason its numbers are low. They suffered during the war ofcourse, but didn’t we all? Kiling on “el Hawiyyeh” was not targetting jews, but rather everybody on all sides. Everybody suffered. May we remember this not to repeat it. Proclaim your right and you shall have it. You will not know if you keep living in fear of trying.
srour Said,
December 27, 2006 @ 10:07 am
i’ve been following the Lebanese Jewish community news for almost 2 years,and i passed by ur site couple of times, nods of appreciation on the work u’r doing to revive the jewish community in Lebanon, i and most of hte leb truly appreciate ur efforts
i would say start with the religious leaders to gain backup and try to have at least one media suppport to explain the Jewish case in Lebanon
yalla wish u hte best
Sergio Said,
January 2, 2007 @ 10:24 am
First let me congratulate you for your initiative!
I am a Jew and a Zionist who lives in Israel, but grew up among a Lebanese Christian and Muslim community in Argentina. Throughout all my childood among these respectable people I never felt any sign of hatred or enemity. In fact, some of my best friends came from the Lebanese community and not from the Spanish or Irish community (these were the majority in this town, Pergamino).
You wrote: “If religious coexistence fails in Lebanon it will ultimately fail throughout the world.” I could not agree more. Growing up among Lebanese people and their descendants tought me that Lebanese people are more open to accept the “different” than the others, and to see in it a source of new ideas rather than a threat. My Lebanese descendants friends were my friends for what we had in common, disregarding our differences. I can only hope that there will be peace in the future between the Lebanese people and the Jewish people in general, and with the Israeli people in particular. It breaks my heart to see our countries fighting for interests that are strange to both people.
Let’s hope your initiative will be the door that will open the way for the dialog and coexistence between religions not only in Lebanon, but also in Israel and all other countries worldwide.
Avraham Said,
January 4, 2007 @ 4:02 pm
While a bit under a million Jews did reside in Muslim (mostly Arab) lands as recently as 1940s, I don’t see Jewish renaissance occuring again there in general or Lebanon in particular. The bottom line is that there is a rabid hatred for the Jews among the Arab world, and a Jew proud of his faith and identifiable (I’m not talking about clowns from Neturei Karta guarded for Hizbullah during their visit for their own good)as such on the streets of Beirut (or elsewhere in Lebanon) would be effectively signing his death warrant. Keep in mind, fellow contributors to the forum, that Israel - much villified and hated by some of you - has seen the growth of its Arab community to now make up over 19% of population (Muslims, Christians, Druze). All of them are free to practice their religion and walk the streets of Israel identifiable by their outward religious symbols/clothing. Nobody is saying Israel is perfect, that this is a very sharp contrast between the two worlds. As long as this disbalance between Israel and the Arab world remains, I do not see a peaceful solution to the Arab-Israeli conflict.
Serge Said,
January 4, 2007 @ 4:57 pm
While I understand that some people who are impassioned with the flame of anti-Zionism wish to say that the Jewish people does not exist and is only a religion. But the fact is that historically we have always considered ourselves to be a people or as it is called in Hebrew “3am yehoudi”.
If some wish to declare that we do not exist as a people I suppose they can think any thing they want about us. But such persons should know (1) that most Jews consider this to be a deeply insulting racism, and that (2) acknowledging that we the Jewish people exist, is not a Zionist/anti-Zionist thing. It is possible to be anti-Zionist without being racist in that way. So I suggest that those of you who are impassioned anti-Zionists avoid declaring that we the Jewish people do not exist, IF what you want is to make this site non-political. The fact is that ethnic minorities have always existed in Lebanon and in fact everywhere in the region. We Jews are one of those.
As to all the talk by Muslims and Christians about rebuilding the Lebanese Jewish community, I think it is very nice, but a bit strange. Jews with histories in Lebanon, exist in many countries in the world. Many in Israel. Many in Canada. If they want to rebuild community in Lebanon, surely they will ask. It is strange to see this imperative comming from persons who are not Jewish, and it seems to be for a nationalist Lebanese motive. Tell me something: how many actually-existing Jews exist today in Lebanon, to use these kosher butcher shops and synagogues that you hope to rebuild? Is this something you truly hope to do for the Jews, or is it somethign you hope to do on behald of Lebanese nationalism, and in order to reinforce your belief that the Jews do not really exist as a national community with a history, only as a “religious” group without any history of its own?
Yvonne Said,
January 5, 2007 @ 10:42 am
Thank you administrator for this nice site. I think some clarification is needed here for some people who like to say that Judaism is just a religion. Well, we Jews consider ourselves to be a nation or a tribe, not just a religion. Sometimes Jews will refer to each other as “members of the tribe.” For some background, we each come from one of the 12 tribes of Israel that have been scattered all across the world, which is why you will find Jews in Lebanon, Brazil, India (tribe of Menashe I believe), Ethiopia(tribe of Dan) etc.
I guess if you wanted to compare us to a group maybe you could compare us to the Kurds who are a distinct group who share a common religion.
Mikha'el Said,
January 5, 2007 @ 3:13 pm
Serge–
Well stated, many of the things you say echo my sentiments. However, I wouldn’t go so far as to classify people denying Jewish peoplehood as “racist”–many Jews object to that very notion. I happen to be a Jew and a Zionist who firmly believes that we Jews of various backgrounds,whether we are Ashkenazi, Sefaradi, Yemeni or Ethiopian constitute one “nation”. But there is disagreement even amongst us whether that is true or not. So I can not castigate someone who denies the existence of an “am yisra’el” as a “racist” if I want to use what I understand to be a precise definition of “racism”. As far as I am concerned, the only valid and precise definition of “racism” is a belief that the human species can be subdivided into various “races”, and that some of those races are inherently superior or inferior relative to one another, and on the basis of that belief one supports the idea of discriminating against one group or promoting the interests of another group, or actively does so. So when an anti-Zionist says “the Jews are not a people, it’s just a religion, and thus underserving of a state” I will argue with them and try to explain why I believe that they are WRONG-but I will not call them racist! In addition, I think we must accept the good intentions of this site’s administrator-it seems to me as if he is acting in good faith. I don’t expect him to be a convert to Zionism or an exponent of Zionist ideas to his fellow Muslim Arabs–and I should not. But if his intention is to promote unity and co-existence and respect for all groups, including the Jewish minority, in his native country–kol ha kavod-all the power to him! Even if the descendants of Lebanese Jews never move back to revitalize that country’s institutions and reestablish a strong Jewish community, the Jews should be recognized as part of the Lebanese heritage, and their heritage and history should be prserved and I applaud him in that effort. Likewise, we Jews must protect the minority communities in Israel –whether they be Arab (Palestinian) Israelis, Arab-Beduin, Druze, Circassian, Armenian, Bahai, etc…and even the children of non-Jewish foreign workers (often illegal immigrants) from places like the Phillipines or Ghana, who are born and raised in Israel and often speak Hebrew better than their parents’ natoive languages.They are part of the Israeli mosaic too–or should be.
Omar Kaj Said,
February 5, 2007 @ 8:13 pm
This s a good plan, but you might need to adopt a formal approach while meeting with the Lebanese government.
What I know is that it is high-time Shephardic Jewish culture had been restored by now - also the lost population itself. The senseless war ended since the early 1990s, so now it is the time to act. However, I would not recommend Beirut or Hizballah areas to be restored or established Jewish places (especially south and east Lebanon), but central and north Lebanon are a good place for that.
Beirut might be ideal, but serious talks are needed. Since Beirut is home to supporters of various parties (both belonging to the March 14 Collision (current government) and March 8 (opposition)), restoring Waild Abu Jumail Street or the Maghen Abraham Synagogue will take a longer time.
Also, it is not just the government that needs conviencing. Lebanese and non-Lebanese Sephardic Jews must also take any opportunity to see and be part of Lebanon once again.
Joseph Hobeika Said,
February 21, 2007 @ 8:28 am
Greetings to you’all !
Welcome on Board , Welcome To Lebanon. “Message” to the World.
By all means, we must rebuild the famous Maghen Avraham Synagogue,
even if it is under the Serail. These days the Serail is useless anyway .
It is a most famous place for utter Gridlock, incompetence , and lacking
any vision, unbecoming of Lebanon , the Lebanese, or the “Message”.
Throughout my life, I was/am among respectable Jewish people. I never
ever felt any sign of hatred or enmity. In fact, some of my best friends
come from the Jewish community. They are some of the most loving,
caring and bright wonderful people anywhere.
I urge all of you who left in a hurry in 1974, to come back ASAP.
This will be the best insurance policy for Lebanon, since Israel will
probably think twice, before bombing Lebanon again to the stone age
one more time! [ Don't misinterpret my comment here, it is well meaning ] .
Ahlan Wa Sahlan, and don’t forget to bring your flag with you, because you
will be one more tribe with a Flag, well put by my friend Charles Glass in
his greatest book ” Tribes with Flags ” which I highly recommend for
everyone to read .
Lastly, I for one, I volunteer to help you in any way I can , in your Demarches
in Lebanon now and in the future.
Lots of Love to ALL of you. Lebanon is about LOVE, and since I am a Christian
of course, ” Christianity is one word : LOVE.” and love abounds in Lebanon,
the land of the great,the land of the Brave, the land of courage, determination,
humanity, generosity, the land of the Cedars, Honey and Milk and lots of water…
and the best climate on Planet earth.
Salaam , Shalom, Mazaltov.
JH
PS I want to visit Jerusalem soon.
Great website, thanks.
Cedra Said,
February 21, 2007 @ 10:37 am
this is the first time i hear that some jews still in lebanon!! I would really like to know more about you to meet someone of you and listen to your demands and concerns ,after all we are lebanese and so damn proud about it .
i wish you all the best with rebuilding the lebanese jewish community,
it would be amazing to see a synagogue near a churche and a mosque in beirut .
Best of luck
keep up the good work .
DDD Said,
February 24, 2007 @ 9:18 pm
Dear admins of this site..
Yes as you stated, the jewish community in lebanon is viewed at by the Lebanese people and government as any other minority.
I dont think you should in anyway doubt contacting the lebanese government. Someone also talked about restoring the Maghen Abraham synagogue, and i agree. But unfortunatly, i think it will be harder to build a jewish school or select a chief rabbi.
Why? Mainly because there isnt a sufficient amount of lebanese jews left in lebanon. In the last election, one jew voted. Other statistics say that there is about 3 jewish families left in beirut and they mostly doesnt practice judaism, none of them a rabbi.
This is ofcourse a loss to the lebanese cultural heritage.
Regarding the state of the Synagogue, i say that it is still standing, couple of small holes on the roof. The building is however quite damaged and should be restored.The gate is locked and there is alot of grass that has grown so much that it is actually blocking the entrance.
I hope however that you will visit lebanon soon. Unfortunately the situation there isnt so good right now…
Regards from Sweden
Avraham H. Said,
March 13, 2007 @ 1:25 am
Dear admins
I was born in Beirut and grew up in that city until I was 20, then I left Lebanon to Israel. I never had the lebanese identity and was always considered as a refugee. When I left I was made to sign a form stating that I agree never to return to Lebanon although all my memories.. education.. culture is LEBANON. I breath Lebanon, the Wadi, the Cedars.. Zahle and Bhamdoun.. yes.. but from far away.
Now I read here that people want to try to bring back the lebanese jewry to a renaissance. Are you SERIOUS??? The minute you set foot in Lebanon you are going to get arrested and you’ll be lucky to stay alive.
So, thank you.. but NO!! Lebanon is unhealthy for Jews these days. Call me when you get rid of Hizbullah, Syria, Iran etc.. Call me when the like of Camil Cham’oun get back to power. Until then I will be satisfied with my memories of the Lebanon that once was and is no more.
Mo Said,
March 15, 2007 @ 10:49 pm
Dear Avraham,
Your feelings about Lebanon now are well founded, but Avraham, who are we kidding, Israel isnt very far behind if not in the same area as Lebanon.
Are you telling me Israel doesnt discriminate against anyone? Please.
When it comes to Jewery there is one thing the mass Media has sought to do, its to muddle up Zionism and Judaism, Israel and Jews. You probably feel differently, but I dont think Zionism and Judaism have anything to do with each other, much like the Hamas and Islamic Jihad charters have anything to do with Islam or Jerusalem.
Jews hold a seat in parliament in Iran, they are free to do so in Lebanon and many Jews still live there. Lebanese Jews have never been suspected or charged with collaboration with Israel, its always been the Muslims, Christians or Druze.
But i am curious if you suffered any discrimination as a Jew when you were there? If so then i am sorry, if not then i dont know where you are comming from.
Btw, i probably misunderstood you, but you said you never had the Lebanese identity, but you also say your memories, education and culture are Lebanese, please clarify.
Thanks, Salam, Shalom.
P.S. If you can do a Lebanese Dabkeh, you are and will always be Lebanese ya achi.
Avraham H. Said,
March 17, 2007 @ 9:33 pm
Dear Mo
I have not suffered any discrimination in Lebanon.. ever.. quite the contrary. That is until 1967 when every lebanese Jew became a “collaborateur” with Israel. I can give you a number of lebanese Jewish leaders who have been assassinated in the middle of Beirut.
And don’t kid yourself, Hamas and Jihad have everything to do with Islam. On the other hand the overwhelming numbers of Jews are pro-Israel, though not necessarily Zionists.You see Mo, Israel is the only place in this whole word where a Jew can be a Jew without fear and the Israeli Arabs have a life so much better in every aspect that any other Arab in any other neighbouring country.
As for myself, I indeed did NOT have the lebanese identity card and held a refugee card which I still have. And yes I do the dabkeh.. And yes ya achi I miss the ABOU SA’DA Arak zahlawi and the Kubbe Nayyeh in Bhamdoun and the Tabbouleh in Bikfayya and especially the Baklawa form Bohsali in Bad Idriss (is it still there??).. But then I will keep all these and much more as part of my memories.. as part of a world that vanished through stupidity and weakness.I do not say that everything Israel did was right, far from it, but others did far worse.
Mo Said,
March 19, 2007 @ 9:53 pm
Dear Avraham
As far as my research goes into how Lebanese Jews were treated during the many Arab wars with Israel the only time i saw any real discrimination against Jews in particular was after the 1982 invasion of Lebanon. I’m not saying you’re lying, just pointing it out.
But to be frank, its not only the Jewish population that was targeted as a specific group, it was Christians, Druze, Shias, Sunnis and Palestinians. It was not only Jewish leaders who were being assassinated in the middle of Beirut, everyone else was.
I don’t know to what extent you’re knowledge goes on Islam, but as a Muslim, let me tell you, Hamas, Islamic Jihad and Al Qaeda have NOTHING to do with Islam other than the fact that they have hijacked the religion to go about their wars. Much like i believe Zionism has done to Judaism.
I understand that most Jews are in support of Israel, but i dont think they support the institution of the State of Israel, more the NATION of Israel, Am Yisrael. I am in support of Am Yisrael but not the present Medinat Yisrael. I’m sure you understand that they are two different things.
Israeli Arabs have arguably the same life in terms of liberty in Israel as they do in other Arab countries, only difference is that they may enjoy more financial prosperity. But the STATE of Israel is institutionally racist to non Jews. I’m sure you will agree, after all when the deputy PM is Avigdor Liberman, you cant argue.
And i further disagree with you that Israel is a place where a Jew can be a Jew without fear. Israel is becoming the most dangerous place for Jews, it has tarnished the image of Judaism much like Al Qaeda has done for Islam. These lead to both Anti-Semitism and Islamophoebia.
I’m sorry, but i dont understand how you can be born in Lebanon but not hold a Lebanese identity card. Please explain, i’m not being sceptical, just simply dont understand how.
As i said, as long as you know your dabkeh you are Lebanese, and of course, where would Lebanon be without ba’lewa, there are quite a few Bohsali branches now, i dont know about the ?Bab? Idriss one.
I hope you do keep your memories, but i have to say, that nothing in this world ever stays the same, definitly not in the middle east. For now, we will just stay a world apart, but who knows, with orgs like this one and popular support, we can change a whole lot. In Lebanon it is easy to make change becuase its such a fluid and flexible country. We’ll just have to wait a bit.
shalom, salam
Avraham H. Said,
March 22, 2007 @ 8:17 am
Dear Mo
I just can’t explain how, being born in Lebanon, in Beirut, at the old Armenian hospital (is it still there??) I did not hold the lebanese identity card. The fact is that i didn’t.
Now for the serious stuff: Any chance of getting a kilo of knaffeh from Bohsali?? (LOL).
As for your views on Islam being hijacked by extremists, I respect them but I am in a position to inform you that you speak for a minority of Muslims. When the majority of Muslims starts speaking your language then the world will be a better place to live in.
Personally I believe you represent the spirit of the true Islam, the one that was always, since the dawn of its history, a step ahead of its time. But not anymore.. Now Islam is in its dark ages. Only a minority of Muslims struggle to show Islam “comme il doit l’etre et pas comme il est”.
As for Zionism-Judaism this in my opinion is not a dichotomy, and the first has not hijacked the second. But I respect your objections until you, or I, are proved wrong.
For the sake of Lebanon, let’s hope that it regains its wits. I was deeply touched by the popular movement that threw Syria out, hoping that the same movement will be able to calm the radicalism of Hizbullah, somehow. I was deeply moved by Hariri Junior and by Walid Junblat, my once schoolfriend at the IC, when they spoke their minds, freely, a that great rally in Beirut.
Let FREEDOM come back and shine over the CEDARS… PLEASE!! And please dear God, let me come back if only once, to sit in a caffe in front of the GROTTE AUX PIGEONS. Is it too much to ask?
A great hug for you Mo.
Avraham
Mo Said,
March 31, 2007 @ 5:40 pm
Hello Avraham
Yes the Armenian hospital is still there although maybe a bit renouvated. As for the Knaffeh, i understand that in Israel the Arabic sweets arent so great. So maybe more than a kilo of Knaffeh. My favourite sweets are the the Asabi’ Ba’lewa (baklava fingers).
And you might be right that i’m speaking for a minority of Musliums, but its probably the minority that havent been affected by American imperialism or Zionism. In Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, South Lebanon, Palestine, Egypt, Afghanistan, Kwait and a lot of the western Muslims.
Avrahamm, there is no smoke without fire, hate has to stem from somewhere, in America, hate for Muslims/Arabs stems from absolute ignorance, in Israel its probably arrogance, in Europe, it could be fear.
Hate of Muslims for the west and Israel may come from ignorance abuot the other side and about the religion, pain, internal strife and impotence.
And to be honest, it is probably only a minority of Muslims that havent expereicned those things above. So i accept i do indeed speak for a minority which is the first time i admit it, usually i argue that there are more than a billion Muslims in the world and the majority are against everything violent.
You see, i believe that the IDF is just as much a terror organisation as Al Qaeda, Hamas and the rest. Because it also benefits from young ignorant people who are injected with fear and hate from the moment they are born. From Brit Milah to military draft, they are stuffed with narrow education, traditions, culture, practices and beliefs. Media broadcasts the hate of the Arabs along with a suicide bombing and bang, they give that 1 year old hot head an m16 rifle and send them off to the “enemy”. What do you expect to happen?
The same way, Al Qaeda uses young disenfranchised Muslims and gives them something to believe in, to fight for, what better thing to fight for than GOD, the Quran? Make them believe that theres a threat and send them out. they go out and commit an act or terror, the other side retaliates, and then you have a “them and us” situation with each religion, race standing behind their respective “fighters” even though they dont agree with the war or the fight or anything else. Its human nature to identify with your own.
Furthermore, Zionism in the Torah is totally different than the Zionism of today. That is for sure. You cannot tell me that those Palestinian and Lebanese children dying was sanctioned by the Torah, that is blasphamy. If GOD wanted the Jews to return to israel now he woyuldnt have allowed it to be so bloody. i am awarre that there are verses in the Torah, either that state or imply that Jews are not supposed to return to Israel before the Moshiach comes. Maybe you could enlighten me.
As to harrir junior, he is a boy in Lebanese politics, he doesnt know his elbow from his but. He doesnt know who to follow and on what basis. Jumblatt is playing a political game, Harriri is the new king who is controled by his dubious advisors. Aoun is playing the same game, just on the other side. When people say is Lebanon gonna go into a civil war, i always say it will not be started from the inside, becuase these people want to live and to simply play politics. Its klike a hobby for them, an addiction, they cant go without some drama, its the Lebanese way, a country of drama queens, much like Israel, except there its conflict against everyone else.
Inshallah, you will come back, and we’ll both have some ahweh arabi in the Land of the Cedars, the ancient land of Israel.
An even bigger hug to you Avraham
Salam
Mo Said,
March 31, 2007 @ 5:47 pm
correction
*18 year old hot head. lol.
ALINE Said,
April 7, 2007 @ 11:17 pm
This is addressed for Mo and Avraham
I am for Jews in Lebanon and everywhere else in the world.
But who are we kidding. Let Lebanon get a real government first in order to start building the synagogue, Let the Lebanese Muslims and Christians live in peace with each other first, Let Lebanon go back to what it used to be in the 70’s in order to restore Wadi Abu Jmil. Let Lebanon rise as One nation, One government, No hezeballah, No Refugee camps. Lebanon was once rich with multi-culture, rich with land, rich with education. Lebanon was one rich with manners, equality, let Lebanon live with no outside interferences:no syrians, no israeli occupation , no outside help. Lebanon never needed help back then why are we asking for it now, why is it that Muslims turned against each other, or muslims turned against Christians or Druze, or Jews for that fact. Why is it that a Jew is looked down , and why is it that a Lebanese government can’t function in order?.
A Lebanese government in proper order and leadership will bring back the Lebanon i used to know and love, where nobody asked what religion you were and everyone one was equal.