The question of Beta Israel’s Jewishness—referring to the Ethiopian Jewish community—has long sparked debate and misunderstanding, despite centuries of halachic rulings affirming their status. While Israeli authorities and major Jewish organizations, including the Chief Rabbinate and Chabad, now broadly recognize Beta Israel as Jews, challenges persist, particularly outside Israel, stemming from ignorance rather than malice.
This article examines the historical journey of Beta Israel’s recognition, explores their relationship with Chabad, and considers steps toward fostering unity within the global Jewish community.
A Legacy of Halachic Endorsement
Beta Israel’s Jewish heritage has been acknowledged by prominent rabbis for centuries. In the 15th century, Rabbi Ovadia of Bartenura described the Ethiopian Jews as members of the children of Israel. This was further solidified by Rabbi David ben Solomon ibn Abi Zimra (Radbaz), who identified them as descendants of the tribe of Dan. His influential ruling guided subsequent halachic decisions, affirming Beta Israel’s Jewishness.
In the modern era, rabbis such as Azriel Hildesheimer and the Malbim called for the rescue of Ethiopian Jews, recognizing them as “seed of Israel.” This stance was reiterated by leading figures like Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook and Rabbi Yitzhak HaLevi Herzog, who advocated for their integration into the Jewish community and protection from assimilation.
Rabbi Ovadia Yosef’s landmark 1973 ruling declared Beta Israel as fully Jewish, emphasizing the mitzvah to bring them to Israel. However, as a precaution, many were required to undergo symbolic conversions, a practice upheld by Israel’s Chief Rabbinate until recent years.
(Photo: Tzvika Israeli)
Chabad’s Approach: A Mixed Picture
Chabad, known for its inclusivity, has played a complex role in the recognition of Beta Israel. The Lubavitcher Rebbe expressed support for their aliyah during Operation Solomon in 1991, referring to Ethiopian Jews as part of Israel’s people. Yet, some Chabad representatives outside Israel remain uncertain about Beta Israel’s Jewishness, primarily due to a lack of understanding of halachic rulings rather than racism.
In Israel, Chabad aligns with the Rabbinate’s standards, accepting Ethiopian Jews who have undergone symbolic conversion without hesitation. A Chabad rabbi in Kiryat Malachi emphasized that what matters most is an individual’s commitment to the Chabad way of life, not their origin.
The Path Forward
While the vast majority of Beta Israel in Israel have undergone symbolic conversions, granting them full recognition, a small number have resisted the requirement, advocating for unconditional acceptance. The Rabbinate’s 2017 decision to fully embrace Rabbi Ovadia Yosef’s ruling marked a significant shift, reducing the need for symbolic conversion. However, global misunderstandings remain.
To bridge these gaps, experts propose an educational campaign targeting Jewish communities and Chabad emissaries worldwide. By promoting awareness of Beta Israel’s halachic status and celebrating their integration into Jewish life, this initiative can counter ignorance and prejudice.
Chabad’s inclusive ethos offers a blueprint for this effort. As one rabbi noted, any discriminatory behavior contradicts Chabad’s values of love and acceptance.
Fostering Unity in Diversity
Beta Israel’s journey reflects the broader challenges of preserving Jewish unity in a diverse global community. By embracing the halachic rulings that affirm their Jewishness and fostering an attitude of tolerance, the Jewish world can honor Beta Israel’s rich heritage and ensure their full inclusion.
Dr. Sharon Shalom, head of the International Center for the Study of Ethiopian Jewry, encapsulates this vision: “Let us work to foster an attitude of tolerance and love, alongside respect for halachic practice.” In doing so, we can strengthen the bonds of Am Yisrael and celebrate the remarkable resilience of Beta Israel.
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