Eastern Sephardim
Eastern Sephardim are Jews who have their roots in Spain and Portugal, but they later migrated to parts of the Middle East, such as Syria, Iraq, and Iran. Imagine you and your family moving to a new city because there is a war or a natural disaster in your old city. These families moved to a new place to find safety.
When they moved, they brought their own language, culture, and religion to their new home. They still practiced Judaism, but their traditions and customs were slightly different than the ones in Spain and Portugal because they mixed with the local culture.
For example, they speak Judeo-Arabic, which is a mixture of Hebrew and Arabic languages. Their food included Middle Eastern spices and dishes, which was different from traditional Spanish and Portuguese food. They also had different musical instruments and songs.
Despite the differences, Eastern Sephardim still maintained their Jewish identity and were proud of their heritage. They kept their own traditions alive, such as celebrating holidays and going to synagogue.
Today, many Eastern Sephardim have resettled in countries like Israel or the United States. They continue to keep their unique customs alive and share them with their new communities.
When they moved, they brought their own language, culture, and religion to their new home. They still practiced Judaism, but their traditions and customs were slightly different than the ones in Spain and Portugal because they mixed with the local culture.
For example, they speak Judeo-Arabic, which is a mixture of Hebrew and Arabic languages. Their food included Middle Eastern spices and dishes, which was different from traditional Spanish and Portuguese food. They also had different musical instruments and songs.
Despite the differences, Eastern Sephardim still maintained their Jewish identity and were proud of their heritage. They kept their own traditions alive, such as celebrating holidays and going to synagogue.
Today, many Eastern Sephardim have resettled in countries like Israel or the United States. They continue to keep their unique customs alive and share them with their new communities.