MY FAMILY
THE BETA ISRAEL CURRICULUM
THE COMMUNITY
Having discussed the broader social and economic experiences of the Beta Israel, teachers should now mention that later units will go into depth about the values, philosophy, and religious life of the community.
Teachers should add that it is important to understand that while there were many external pressures put on the Beta Israel over the many centuries, their strength was rooted in their faith and the interpersonal relationships that existed within the community.
Given this, students should be asked to read the following reflection written by Rabbi Dr. Shalom and then imagine what life might have been like growing up in a village of the Beta Israel community in Ethiopia.
| From Sinai to Ethiopia, pp. 258-259 Rabbi Dr. Sharon Shalom |
| The kessim (priests) instructed their followers to behave respectfully, and with their authority, they formed a culture that is introverted, reserved, and undemanding. They do not say “no,” nor do they rebel against authority. In Ethiopian culture, one does not use the first name of an important person, and when speaking to such a person, one does not look directly at his face. If he is elderly, one should kiss his knee, and only then commence speaking to him. There is a saying that the Jewish people were graced with three characteristics – bash- fulness, mercy, and kindness to others. In Ethiopia, the Beta Israel, like Jews elsewhere, practiced kindness to others. They assisted the weak, converts, and the sick. Their way of life in Ethiopia enabled significant social support for each individual. Communal life in family groups was based on mutual aid – I help you, and you help me, you give to me, and I give back to you. When one person plowed, the neighbors came to plow with him. When one person built a house, his friends came to assist him. In times of crisis, the individual was not left alone without support. |
Teachers may also wish to show the photograph below, depicting fellowship within the Beta Israel community.
Two members of the Beta Israel helping each other. Credit: Karmiel Municipality32
31 Shalom, From Sinai to Ethiopia, 87.
32 Photograph, Karmiel Municipality: https://karmiel.muni.il/אתיופיה-ליהודי-אנדרטה
