What is Samaritanism, and what are its fundamental characteristics?

Samaritanism is an Abrahamic, monotheistic, ethnic religion. It encompasses the spiritual, cultural, and legal traditions of the Samaritan people, who trace their origins to the ancient Hebrews and Israelites. The faith is centered around the Samaritan Pentateuch, which adherents believe to be the original and unaltered version of the Torah.

From which ancient peoples do the Samaritans trace their lineage?

The Samaritans trace their lineage to the ancient Hebrews and Israelites. Their distinct identity began to emerge after the Neo-Assyrian Empire conquered the Kingdom of Israel during the Iron Age.

What is the primary scripture of Samaritanism, and why is it significant?

The primary scripture of Samaritanism is the Samaritan Pentateuch. Samaritans consider it to be the original and unchanged version of the Torah, distinguishing it from the versions accepted by other Abrahamic faiths.

How does Samaritanism position itself in relation to Judaism?

Samaritanism asserts itself as the true, preserved form of the monotheistic faith originally practiced by the Israelites under Moses. While closely related to Judaism, it maintains that its traditions represent the authentic continuation of ancient Israelite worship.

According to Samaritan belief, what is the original holy site of the Israelites, and where is it located?

According to Samaritan belief, the original holy site of the Israelites is Mount Gerizim, located near the city of Nablus. This contrasts with the Jewish tradition that designates Jerusalem as the primary holy site.

Where do Samaritans believe the Binding of Isaac took place, and how does this differ from Jewish belief?

Samaritans believe the Binding of Isaac occurred on Mount Gerizim. This differs from the Jewish belief that this significant event took place at Jerusalem's Temple Mount.

What is the approximate number of Samaritan followers today, and how does this position the religion globally?

Today, there are approximately 900 Samaritan followers. This small number makes Samaritanism one of the smallest religions in the world.

What is the traditional Samaritan account of the schism that separated them from other Israelites?

Traditionally, Samaritans believe the schism originated with High Priest Eli leaving Mount Gerizim, the first Israelite altar site in Canaan, to establish a competing altar and sanctuary in Shiloh. The Israelites who followed Eli to Shiloh eventually settled in Jerusalem (becoming Jews), while those who remained on Mount Gerizim became known as Samaritans.

According to the 14th-century historian Abu l-Fath, what caused the division among the Israelites?

Abu l-Fath recounts that a civil war broke out due to Eli son of Yafni's attempt to usurp the High Priesthood from the descendants of Phinehas. Eli's actions, including offering a sacrifice without salt and building a competing sanctuary in Shiloh, led to a split, dividing the Israelites into three factions.

What were the three factions of Israelites mentioned in the Samaritan historical accounts?

The Samaritan historical accounts describe three factions: a loyal faction remaining on Mount Gerizim, a heretical faction that followed false gods, and a faction that followed Eli son of Yafni in Shiloh.

What do modern genetic studies suggest about the origins of the Samaritan population?

Modern genetic studies from 2004 suggest that Samaritan lineages trace back to a common ancestor with Jews, specifically within the paternal Jewish high priesthood (Cohanim). These studies indicate a temporal proximity to the Assyrian conquest of the Kingdom of Israel, supporting the idea that Samaritans are likely descendants of the historical Israelite population.

When did Samaritanism likely emerge as a distinct tradition from Judaism, according to scholarly perspectives?

Scholars suggest that Samaritanism likely emerged as a distinct tradition during the Hasmonean and Roman eras. This period followed the coalescence of Yahwism into Second Temple Judaism, marking a clearer divergence between the two groups.

When was the temple on Mount Gerizim built, and what does its subsequent construction indicate?

The temple on Mount Gerizim was built in the 5th century BCE. The centuries-long period of large-scale construction starting around the 4th century BCE indicates that its status as the pre-eminent place of worship for Samaritans was solidifying during that time.

What event around 120 BCE significantly worsened relations between Jews and Samaritans?

Around 120 BCE, the Hasmonean king John Hyrcanus destroyed the Mount Gerizim temple and brought Samaria under his control. This action led to a long-lasting sense of mutual hostility between the Jewish and Samaritan communities.

What are the core beliefs of Samaritanism regarding God and scripture?

Samaritans believe in one God, Yahweh, who is the same God recognized by Jewish prophets, emphasizing His absolute unity. They hold the Torah, specifically the Samaritan Pentateuch, as the sole true holy book, believing it was given to Moses and predates the world's creation.

Which religious texts and traditions do Samaritans reject, and why?

Samaritans reject the Oral Torah, the Talmud, and all prophets and scriptures beyond the Pentateuch. They view Moses as the last prophet and do not accept the authority of post-Torah sections of the Jewish Bible or classical Rabbinical works.

What is the Samaritan belief about the Taheb?

Samaritans believe in an apocalyptic figure called the Taheb, who is their equivalent of the Jewish Messiah. The Taheb is expected to come from the tribe of Joseph, act as a prophet like Moses for 40 years, bring about the return of all Israelites, and oversee the resurrection of the dead.

How do Samaritans observe the Sabbath?

Samaritans observe the Sabbath weekly from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset. During this 24-hour period, families gather for worship, prayer services, reading the weekly Torah portion, and spending time together, refraining from work, cooking, and using electricity except for minimal lighting.

What is the significance of Passover for the Samaritan community?

Passover is a particularly important festival for Samaritans, culminating in the sacrifice of up to 40 sheep. This observance highlights their continued adherence to ancient practices, including the slaughter and consumption of lambs on the eve of the holiday.

How does the Samaritan observance of Sukkot differ from the Jewish tradition?

During Sukkot, Samaritans build their sukkah (booth) inside their houses, a practice that differs from the traditional outdoor setting among Jews. This indoor tradition is believed by some historians to have originated due to persecution during the Byzantine Empire.

What are the key differences between the Samaritan Pentateuch and the Masoretic Jewish Pentateuch?

There are approximately 6,000 differences between the Samaritan Pentateuch and the Masoretic Jewish Pentateuch. The Samaritan text also shows about 1,900 points of agreement with the Greek Septuagint version, suggesting an ancient textual tradition.

What is the 'Abisha Scroll', and what is its significance in Samaritan tradition?

The 'Abisha Scroll' is a manuscript of the Pentateuch tradition attributed to Abishua, the grandson of Aaron. It is traditionally believed to have been compiled during the Bronze Age, making it a highly revered text within Samaritanism.

What types of religious texts do Samaritans possess besides the Samaritan Pentateuch?

Samaritans possess various categories of religious texts, including historical writings like the Tolidah and the Chronicle of Joshua, halakhic texts such as The Hillukh and Kitab at-Tabbah, haggadic midrash texts like Al-Asatir, and liturgical texts like the Defter (prayer book).

What is the Samaritan view on the prophets and scriptures outside the Torah?

Samaritans believe Moses was the last prophet and reject the authority of the Oral Torah, the Talmud, and all prophets and scriptures that came after the Torah. They do not consider the Samaritan version of the Book of Joshua as scripture.

What is the significance of Mount Gerizim in Samaritan belief and practice?

Mount Gerizim is considered the true sanctuary chosen by God in Samaritanism. It is revered as the site where the Binding of Isaac took place and serves as the central focus of their worship and religious identity, in contrast to Jerusalem's role in Judaism.

How is the Sabbath observed in Samaritan communities?

The Sabbath is observed weekly from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset. During this time, families gather for worship, including seven prayer services, reading the weekly Torah portion, and spending time together, with restrictions on work and electricity use, except for minimal lighting.

What is the role of the High Priest in Samaritanism?

Samaritanism has conserved the institution of a High Priest, who plays a significant role in their religious leadership and observances. The current High Priest is mentioned as Aabed-El ben Asher ben Matzliach.

What are the Samaritan languages of worship and daily use?

The primary languages used in Samaritan worship and tradition are Samaritan Hebrew and Samaritan Aramaic. These languages are integral to their religious texts and practices.

What is the traditional Samaritan view on the origin of the split with Jews regarding the sanctuary?

Samaritans traditionally believe the split occurred when High Priest Eli moved the Israelite altar and sanctuary from Mount Gerizim to Shiloh. This move led to a division, with those who stayed at Gerizim becoming Samaritans and those who followed Eli eventually establishing Jerusalem as their center.

How did the relationship between Samaritans and Jews evolve over time, according to the text?

The relationship between Samaritans and Jews evolved from close ties to increasing hostility. Events like the destruction of the Mount Gerizim temple by John Hyrcanus around 120 BCE exacerbated tensions, leading to mutual disparagement that persisted into later periods, as noted in the New Testament.

What is the significance of the 'Samaritan Torah' or 'Samaritan Pentateuch'?

The Samaritan Pentateuch is considered by Samaritans to be the original and unaltered version of the Torah. It is the central religious text of Samaritanism and differs in approximately 6,000 points from the Masoretic Text used in Judaism.

What are the main categories of Samaritan religious literature mentioned in the article?

The main categories of Samaritan religious literature include the Samaritan Pentateuch, historical writings (like the Tolidah and Chronicle of Joshua), halakhic texts (codes of law), haggadic midrash texts (legendary and interpretive works), and liturgical texts (prayer books).

What is the Samaritan perspective on the sanctity of Jerusalem and the Temple Mount?

Samaritans do not recognize the sanctity of Jerusalem or its Temple Mount. They believe that Mount Gerizim, not Jerusalem, is the true sanctuary chosen by God.

What is the role of the Taheb in Samaritan eschatology?

The Taheb is a central figure in Samaritan eschatology, believed to be a prophet like Moses and the Samaritan equivalent of the Messiah. His arrival signifies the end times, the resurrection of the dead, and the return of all Israelites.

What specific practices are maintained by the Samaritan high priesthood?

The Samaritan high priesthood maintains the practice of slaughtering and eating lambs on Passover eve, a significant ritual observance.

How do Samaritans determine the dates for their religious festivals?

Samaritans celebrate festivals such as Pesach, Shavuot, and Sukkot, but they use a different method for determining their annual dates compared to Rabbinic Judaism.

What is the significance of the 'Counting of the Omer' in Samaritan practice?

The Counting of the Omer is a practice that remains largely unchanged in Samaritanism. The week preceding Shavuot is also observed as a unique festival celebrating the community's enduring commitment since the time of Moses.

What is the traditional Samaritan interpretation of the 'four species' for Sukkot?

For Sukkot, Samaritans decorate the roof of their sukkah with citrus fruits and the branches of palm, myrtle, and willow trees, following their interpretation of the Torah's commandment regarding the four species.

What is the historical context for the Samaritan practice of building sukkahs indoors?

The practice of building sukkahs indoors, as opposed to outdoors, is traced by Samaritan historian Benyamim Tsedaka to periods of persecution faced by Samaritans during the Byzantine Empire.

What is the 'Defter' in Samaritan tradition?

The 'Defter' is the Samaritan prayer book, containing psalms and hymns used in their religious services.

What is the significance of the 'Shema Yisrael' for Samaritans?

The phrase 'Shema Yisrael' (Hear, O Israel), written in Samaritan Hebrew calligraphy, serves as the official symbol of the Samaritans, representing their core faith.

What is the traditional Samaritan view on the lineage of the High Priesthood?

Samaritan tradition traces the lineage of the High Priesthood through descendants of Aaron. The schism is often linked to disputes over this lineage, particularly concerning Eli and the descendants of Phinehas.

What is the historical basis for the Samaritan claim to be descendants of the original Israelites?

Historical and genetic evidence suggests Samaritans are descendants of the historical Israelite population, with lineages tracing back to the period of the Assyrian conquest of the Kingdom of Israel. Their religious practices and scriptures, particularly the Samaritan Pentateuch, are seen as a continuation of ancient Israelite traditions.

What role did figures like Hezekiah and Josiah play in relation to early Samaritanism?

According to biblical texts, the Judean kings Hezekiah and Josiah instituted cultic reforms that faced little opposition extending to the Samaritan people in the north, suggesting that early Samaritan religion was similar to that in Judea before the divergence became pronounced.

What is the significance of the 'Abisha Scroll' in relation to the Samaritan Pentateuch?

The 'Abisha Scroll' is a manuscript of the Pentateuch tradition within Samaritanism, attributed to Abishua, Aaron's grandson. It is considered a testament to the antiquity of their textual tradition.

What is the Samaritan view on the prophets and scriptures outside the Torah?

Samaritans consider the Torah to be the only true holy book and view Moses as the last prophet. They reject the authority of the Oral Torah, the Talmud, and other prophetic writings found in the Hebrew Bible, except for a version of the Book of Joshua which they do not hold as scripture.

How does Samaritanism view the concept of the Messiah?

Samaritans believe in a future messianic figure called the Taheb, who is expected to be a prophet like Moses and will lead the return of all Israelites. This figure originates from the tribe of Joseph.

What is the historical context for the Samaritan practice of building sukkahs indoors?

The practice of building sukkahs inside homes, rather than outdoors, is attributed by Samaritan historian Benyamim Tsedaka to the persecution faced by the community during the Byzantine Empire.

What is the significance of the 'Samaritan New Chronicle' or 'Adler'?

The 'Samaritan New Chronicle,' also known as 'Adler,' is a historical text believed to have been compiled in the 18th century from earlier chronicles. It provides accounts of the Samaritan origins and the divisions within the Israelite people.

What is the Samaritan perspective on Yom Teru'ah?

Samaritans do not consider Yom Teru'ah, the biblical name for Rosh Hashanah, as a New Year, unlike its observance in Rabbinic Judaism.

What is the historical significance of the 'Samaritan script'?

While not explicitly detailed in the provided text, the mention of 'Samaritan script' in the context of religious texts implies its importance in preserving their unique traditions and scriptures, distinct from other Jewish scripts.

Samaritanism Wiki: The Samaritan Legacy: A Living Link to Ancient Faith

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Overview

An Ancient Abrahamic Tradition

Samaritanism represents an Abrahamic, monotheistic, ethnic religion adhered to by the Samaritans. This community traces its origins to the ancient Israelites and Hebrews, emerging as a distinct group following the Neo-Assyrian conquest of the Kingdom of Israel during the Iron Age. Central to their faith is the Samaritan Pentateuch, which they hold as the authentic, unaltered version of the Torah.

Preserving Original Faith

While closely related to Judaism, Samaritanism posits itself as the continuation of the original monotheistic faith established by Moses. A key tenet is the reverence for Mount Gerizim as the true holy site, contrasting with the Jewish focus on Jerusalem. This divergence forms the historical basis of the Samaritan identity.

A Diminishing Community

Today, the Samaritan population numbers approximately 900 individuals, making it one of the world's smallest religious communities. Despite its limited numbers, the faith maintains a rich history and distinct traditions that have persisted for millennia.

Historical Trajectory

Traditional Accounts of Schism

Samaritan tradition identifies Mount Gerizim as the original holy site. The schism with what would become Judaism is attributed to the High Priest Eli, who allegedly abandoned Gerizim and established a rival altar in Shiloh. This led to a division within the Israelite community into three factions: those loyal to Mount Gerizim (the proto-Samaritans), a heretical group, and Eli's followers in Shiloh.

Scholarly Perspectives

Genetic studies suggest Samaritan lineages align with the paternal Jewish high priesthood, indicating a common ancestry around the time of the Assyrian conquest. Initially, Samaritan and Judean religious practices were likely congruent. However, distinct Samaritan traditions solidified during the Hasmonean and Roman periods, coinciding with the development of Second Temple Judaism. The construction of a significant temple on Mount Gerizim began in the 5th century BCE, solidifying its status as the pre-eminent Samaritan sanctuary.

The relationship between Jews and Samaritans deteriorated significantly, particularly after John Hyrcanus destroyed the Mount Gerizim temple around 120 BCE. This event fostered lasting animosity, prompting both groups to emphasize their distinct religious identities. The animosity is reflected in contemporary texts, including the New Testament's Parable of the Good Samaritan.

Core Tenets

The Unity of God

Samaritanism is strictly monotheistic, affirming the absolute unity of God, known as Yahweh. This God is considered the ultimate cause of all existence, filling the entire world. While His nature is beyond human comprehension, His actions and revelations provide understanding.

The Authority of the Torah

The Samaritan Pentateuch is revered as the sole authentic scripture, believed to have been given by God to Moses. It is considered pre-existent and foundational for salvation. Consequently, Samaritans reject the Oral Torah, Talmud, and the prophetic books accepted in Judaism. Moses is regarded as the final prophet.

Monotheism: Absolute belief in one God, Yahweh.
Torah Primacy: The Pentateuch is the only divine scripture; other Jewish texts are rejected.
Mount Gerizim: Recognized as the true sanctuary, superseding Jerusalem. The Binding of Isaac is traditionally located here.
Prophetic Role of Moses: Moses is the final prophet.
The Taheb: Belief in a future messianic figure, the Taheb, who will restore all Israelites and reveal Moses' Tabernacle.
Resurrection: Belief in the resurrection of the dead.

Mount Gerizim: The True Sanctuary

Unlike Judaism, Samaritanism designates Mount Gerizim, near Nablus, as the original and true sanctuary chosen by God. This belief is intrinsically linked to their understanding of Israelite history and the location of key events, such as the Binding of Isaac, which they place on Gerizim, in contrast to the Jewish tradition locating it on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem.

Sacred and Historical Texts

The Samaritan Pentateuch

The cornerstone of Samaritan scripture is the Pentateuch, which exhibits approximately 6,000 variations compared to the Masoretic Text used in Judaism. Notably, it shares around 1,900 points of agreement with the Greek Septuagint translation. The antiquity of the Samaritan text is supported by these variations, some of which align with ancient Latin, Syriac, and Ethiopian translations. The manuscript known as the Abisha Scroll, traditionally attributed to Aaron's grandson Abishua, is particularly revered.

Diverse Literary Corpus

Beyond the Pentateuch, the Samaritans possess a rich corpus of historical, halakhic (legal), haggadic (narrative/homiletic), and liturgical texts. These writings provide insights into their unique traditions and interpretations.

Historical Writings: Include chronicles detailing their history from creation to later periods, such as the Tolidah and the Chronicle of Abu 'l-Fath.
Halakhic Texts: Codify Samaritan law and interpretation, including works like The Hillukh, Kitab at-Tabbah, and Kitab al-Kafi.
Haggadic Midrash Texts: Contain homiletic and narrative material, such as the Al-Asatir and the theological treatises attributed to Markah.
Liturgical Texts: Primarily the Defter, a prayer book containing psalms and hymns.

Observances and Rituals

Passover and Sabbath

The Passover (Pesach) remains a central festival, marked by the ritual sacrifice of lambs on the eve of the festival. The Sabbath is observed weekly from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset, involving 24 hours of rest, prayer services, Torah readings, and family time, with strict adherence to prohibitions against work and cooking.

Annual Festivals

Samaritans celebrate the major pilgrimage festivals of Pesach, Shavuot, and Sukkot, although their calendar calculations differ from Rabbinic Judaism. The Counting of the Omer remains significant, leading up to Shavuot, which is characterized by extended prayer services. During Sukkot, the traditional sukkah is erected indoors, a practice attributed to historical periods of persecution.

The Samaritan Community

Geographic Presence

The majority of the Samaritan population resides in Holon, Israel, with a smaller community remaining in Nablus, West Bank, near their traditional holy site of Mount Gerizim.

Continuity and Identity

Despite their small numbers and historical challenges, the Samaritans maintain a strong sense of collective identity and continuity. The role of the High Priest, descended from the lineage of Aaron, remains a vital spiritual and symbolic anchor for the community.

Further Study

Academic Resources

For deeper academic engagement, consult scholarly works on Samaritan history, theology, and textual traditions. Key areas of study include the development of the Samaritan Pentateuch, the historical schism with Judaism, and the preservation of ancient Israelite practices.

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References

de Hemmer Gudme 2013, p. 52.

VanderKam & Flint 2005, p. 95.

Law 2013, p. 24.

Seeligmann 2004, p. 64.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Samaritanism Wikipedia page

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This content has been generated by an AI model for educational purposes, drawing upon information from publicly available sources, primarily Wikipedia. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to academic standards, the information should be critically evaluated.

This is not theological or historical advice. The material presented is intended for informational purposes and does not substitute consultation with qualified scholars or religious authorities. Users are encouraged to consult primary sources and peer-reviewed academic literature for comprehensive understanding.

The creators of this page assume no liability for errors, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided.

The Samaritan Legacy

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview ℹ️

🌍 An Ancient Abrahamic Tradition

🏛️ Preserving Original Faith

👥 A Diminishing Community

Historical Trajectory 📜

🗣️ Traditional Accounts of Schism

🔬 Scholarly Perspectives

Core Tenets 💡

☝️ The Unity of God

📜 The Authority of the Torah

⛰️ Mount Gerizim: The True Sanctuary

Sacred and Historical Texts 📖

✍️ The Samaritan Pentateuch

📚 Diverse Literary Corpus

Observances and Rituals 🙏

🐑 Passover and Sabbath

📅 Annual Festivals

The Samaritan Community 👥

📍 Geographic Presence

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Continuity and Identity

Further Study 🎓

📚 Academic Resources

❓ Engage with the Material

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References

📜 References

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Academic Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Considerations

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

An Ancient Abrahamic Tradition

Preserving Original Faith

A Diminishing Community

Historical Trajectory

Traditional Accounts of Schism

Scholarly Perspectives

Core Tenets

The Unity of God

The Authority of the Torah

Mount Gerizim: The True Sanctuary

Sacred and Historical Texts

The Samaritan Pentateuch

Diverse Literary Corpus

Observances and Rituals

Passover and Sabbath

Annual Festivals

The Samaritan Community

Geographic Presence

Continuity and Identity

Further Study

Academic Resources

Engage with the Material

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Considerations