Sephardi Jews

Sephardi Jews are a subgroup of Jews who historically lived in the Iberian Peninsula, which includes modern-day Spain and Portugal. The term "Sephardi" comes from "Sepharad," a Biblical location identified by scholars as the Iberian Peninsula. Sephardi Jews have a distinct religious tradition and cultural practices that differ in some ways from those of Ashkenazi Jews, who originate from Eastern Europe.

History

The history of Sephardi Jews begins in the early centuries of the Common Era, though Jewish presence in the Iberian Peninsula is believed to date back even earlier. The golden age of Jewish culture in Spain peaked during the Muslim rule, particularly between the 8th and 11th centuries. This period was marked by significant contributions to philosophy, science, and poetry, with figures such as Maimonides and Judah Halevi.

However, the situation for Jews in Spain deteriorated after the Christian Reconquista. The pivotal year was 1492, when the Alhambra Decree was issued by Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile, ordering the expulsion of all Jews from Spain. Many Sephardi Jews fled to the Ottoman Empire, North Africa, and other parts of Europe. A similar decree was issued in Portugal in 1497, further dispersing the Sephardi communities.

Culture and Language

Sephardi Jews have a rich cultural heritage that includes a unique liturgical tradition, distinct musical styles, and specific culinary customs. Their liturgy is known as Sephardic, which differs slightly from the Ashkenazi and other Jewish rites in prayer formulations and melodies.

The traditional language of Sephardi Jews is Ladino, also known as Judeo-Spanish, a Romance language derived from Old Spanish, with elements of Hebrew, Arabic, and Turkish. Ladino was widely spoken within the Sephardi diaspora but is today considered endangered.

Religious Practices

Sephardi religious practices also differ from those of Ashkenazi Jews, with variations in liturgical texts, pronunciations, and customs. For example, Sephardi Torah scrolls are typically stored in ornate, cylindrical cases, and their prayer shawls (Tallit) often feature a different style of knotting.

Modern Sephardi Communities

Today, Sephardi Jews are found worldwide, with significant populations in Israel, where they have played a crucial role in cultural and political life. Other substantial communities exist in the United States, France, and Turkey. The integration and preservation of Sephardi culture and traditions remain important issues within the broader Jewish community.

See Also

• History of the Jews in Spain
• History of the Jews in Portugal
• Mizrahi Jews
• Jewish ethnic divisions