Samaritanism

Shma yisrael

Samaritans

2106 WLM - OVEDC - Mount Gerizim - SUKUT 15

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Samaritan High Priest and Old Pentateuch, 1905

Samaritanism is an Abrahamic, monotheistic religion closely related to Judaism, based on the Torah. Samaritans assert their worship is the true religion of the ancient Israelites prior to the Babylonian Exile, preserved by those who remained in the Land of Israel, as opposed to Judaism, which they claim reflects the practices of the Jews who returned from exile. Central to Samaritanism is the belief in one God, Yahweh, and the veneration of Mount Gerizim over Jerusalem as the sole holy site. The religion's followers, the Samaritans, are ethnically related to the Jews but have distinct religious practices and beliefs.

Beliefs and Practices

Samaritanism holds the Pentateuch (the first five books of the Hebrew Bible) as its sacred text, rejecting the Oral Torah and the rest of the Hebrew Bible accepted by Jews. The Samaritan Pentateuch differs in some aspects from the Jewish version, though the fundamental stories and laws are largely the same. Samaritans celebrate similar religious festivals to Jews, such as Passover and Sukkot, but with distinct rituals and a focus on Mount Gerizim, which they believe was designated by God as the location for the Temple.

Samaritans perform animal sacrifices, a practice that has been abandoned by mainstream Judaism. The Passover sacrifice is particularly significant and is conducted annually on Mount Gerizim. Samaritan religious life is led by priests who claim descent from Aaron, the brother of Moses. The high priest holds a position of considerable authority within the community.

History

The origins of Samaritanism are complex and subject to historical debate. Samaritans themselves trace their roots back to the Israelites who were not exiled by the Assyrians in 722 BCE. After the return of the Jews from the Babylonian exile, tensions arose between those who had remained in the land (the ancestors of the Samaritans) and the returnees, leading to a schism. The construction of a rival temple on Mount Gerizim during the Persian period was a significant factor in the formal division between the two groups.

Over the centuries, the Samaritan population has fluctuated, facing periods of persecution and decline. The community experienced a significant decrease in numbers due to conversion, persecution, and assimilation, particularly during the Byzantine and Islamic periods. Today, the Samaritan community is small, numbering around 800 individuals, residing primarily in Holon, Israel, and near Mount Gerizim in the West Bank.

Cultural and Religious Identity

Despite their small numbers, Samaritans have maintained a distinct cultural and religious identity. Their religious practices, language (a dialect of ancient Hebrew), and communal life distinguish them from both Jews and other peoples of the region. Samaritanism emphasizes strict adherence to the laws given in the Pentateuch, including dietary laws, Sabbath observance, and ritual purity.

Modern Challenges and Relations

The modern Samaritan community faces several challenges, including issues related to their small population and concerns about genetic diversity. Efforts to preserve their ancient traditions while navigating the realities of living in a predominantly Jewish state and alongside a significant Palestinian population have shaped contemporary Samaritan identity.

Relations between Samaritans, Jews, and Palestinians are generally peaceful, with Samaritans often acting as a bridge between the two larger communities. However, the political and social complexities of the region sometimes place pressures on the Samaritan community regarding their identity and allegiances.

Conclusion

Samaritanism represents a unique and enduring strand of the ancient Israelite tradition. Despite their small numbers, the Samaritans continue to practice their ancient religion with a deep commitment to their historical and religious heritage. Their preservation of ancient practices offers a window into the past and a living example of the diversity within Abrahamic religions.