The Ethiopian Jews of Israel: a journey of faith, struggle, and identity

In the rich mosaic of Israel's population, the Ethiopian Jewish community - also known as Beta Israel - represents a powerful story of ancient faith, modern migration, and the ongoing fight for equality. Their history is filled with resilience, and their presence in Israel continues to shape the country's social and cultural fabric. But who are Ethiopian Jews, where do they come from, and what does life look like for them in Israel today?

IDF officer helping Ethiopian immigrants out of the Hercules jet, Air Force base, Operation Solomon.

Who are the Ethiopian Jews?

Ethiopian Jews trace their roots to the ancient Kingdom of Aksum and have practiced Judaism for over a thousand years - long before they made contact with the wider Jewish world. Known as Beta Israel (“House of Israel”), they developed religious traditions that parallel mainstream Judaism but evolved in isolation, without the influence of the Talmud or Rabbinic law. Their practices are deeply biblical, with strong emphasis on the Torah, purity laws, and a unique religious leadership structure led by Kessim (spiritual leaders).

There’s also a small group called the Falash Mura - descendants of Ethiopian Jews who were forced to convert to Christianity in the 19th century but maintained a strong Jewish identity. Many of them have returned to Judaism and sought to immigrate to Israel.

Where do they come from?

Ethiopian Jews lived mainly in the northern Ethiopian provinces of Gondar and Tigray. There, they formed tight-knit agricultural communities, often living separately from their Christian neighbors. Despite centuries of coexistence, they were frequently marginalized and suffered social discrimination, referred to by the derogatory term Falasha (“stranger” or “exile”).

Their longing for Jerusalem - expressed in prayers, songs, and oral tradition - remained central to their identity, and many considered their return to Zion not only a hope but a divine promise.

Aliyah to Israel: the long road home

The dream of returning to Israel became a reality in the late 20th century. In 1975, Israel officially recognized Beta Israel as Jews under the Law of Return. This decision paved the way for a series of dramatic airlifts:

• Operation Moses (1984–1985): thousands of Ethiopian Jews fled famine and civil war, trekking through Sudan to reach Israel. Over 8,000 were rescued, though many perished along the journey.

• Operation Solomon (1991): in a single 36-hour operation, over 14,000 Ethiopian Jews were airlifted from Addis Ababa to Israel as the Ethiopian regime collapsed.

Since then, immigration has continued in waves, and today over 160,000 Ethiopian Jews live in Israel.

Where do they live today?

Initially, many Ethiopian immigrants were placed in absorption centers and peripheral towns. Today, large communities exist in cities like Netanya, Ashdod, Be'er Sheva, Kiryat Malakhi, Rehovot, Haifa, and neighborhoods in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. Despite efforts to integrate, geographic and socioeconomic separation still persists.

The challenges they face

The journey to Israel was just the beginning. Once in the country, many Ethiopian Jews faced institutional discrimination, racism, and cultural misunderstanding.

In recent years, protests have erupted in response to inequality.

Achievements and cultural contribution

Despite the challenges, the Ethiopian Israeli community has made significant strides. MK Pnina Tamano-Shata became the first Ethiopian-born minister in the Israeli government. Ethiopian Israelis have made their mark in the IDF (especially in combat units), arts, music, sports, fashion, and activism.

Their heritage adds a vibrant layer to Israeli culture, celebrated during Sigd, a unique Ethiopian Jewish holiday that symbolizes unity and spiritual renewal, now recognized as an official Israeli holiday.

Conclusion

The story of Ethiopian Jews in Israel is not only about struggle but also about hope, pride, and perseverance. They remind us that Jewish identity is not one-size-fits-all - it’s ancient, diverse, and evolving. As Israeli society continues to grow and reflect on its own complexities, the Ethiopian community remains a vital voice in shaping what Israel is - and what it strives to become.