African Hebrew Israelites of Jerusalem

A spiritual community of African-American in Israel, claiming that they are the true decedents of the ancient Israelites


Origins and Migration

The African Hebrew Israelites of Jerusalem, also known as Black Hebrews or the Kingdom of Yah, represent a distinctive spiritual community with roots in the United States. Founded by Ben Ammi Ben-Israel (born Ben Carter) in Chicago in 1966, the group emerged from the broader Black Hebrew movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This movement asserted that African Americans were the true descendants of the ancient Israelites and rightful heirs to biblical promises.

Ben Ammi’s leadership was catalyzed by a vision he claimed to have received in 1966, instructing him to lead his followers back to the Holy Land. This revelation sparked a remarkable exodus that began in 1967 when Ben Ammi and a small group of followers embarked on a journey to Israel, first stopping in Liberia. The group spent two and a half years in Liberia, viewing this period as a spiritual purification process. In 1969, the first members arrived in Israel, settling in the Negev Desert city of Dimona, with additional followers joining over subsequent years.

Spiritual Beliefs and Cultural Identity

The African Hebrew Israelites see themselves as descendants of the tribe of Judah, emphasizing a spiritual identity rather than a strictly religious one. They maintain a distinction between religion, which they view critically, and spirituality, which permeates all aspects of their lives. The community’s belief system is a unique blend of Judaism, Christianity, and African-American spiritual traditions.

Central to their ideology is the conviction that they are fulfilling a divine mandate by returning to their ancestral homeland, which they consider to be northeastern Africa and the Middle East. This return is seen as a reenactment of the biblical Israelites’ exodus and a restoration of their true cultural and spiritual heritage.

The group’s spiritual leadership is vested in the Holy Council, consisting of 12 men known as princes and chaired by Ben Ammi. This structure reflects their interpretation of biblical governance and provides spiritual guidance to the community.

Lifestyle and Health Practices

One of the most notable aspects of the African Hebrew Israelites is their commitment to a holistic lifestyle centered on health and wellness. The community adheres to a strict vegan diet, abstaining from meat, processed foods, and most alcoholic beverages. They also avoid tobacco and drugs, emphasizing natural health practices and regular exercise.

This focus on health has yielded impressive results, with the community successfully minimizing diseases like high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. Their approach to health is integral to their spiritual practice, reflecting a belief in the sanctity of the body and the importance of physical well-being in spiritual development.

The community’s lifestyle extends beyond diet and exercise to encompass various aspects of daily life. They practice polygamy, justified by their interpretation of biblical texts, and place a strong emphasis on education and communal living. The African Hebrew Israelites operate their own schools, known as the School of the Prophets, which combine academic studies with their spiritual teachings and cultural practices.

Life in Israel and Integration Challenges

Upon arriving in Israel, the African Hebrew Israelites faced significant legal challenges. Initially living in a state of limbo without official status, they confronted the constant threat of deportation. However, their situation gradually improved over the decades. In the early 1990s, they were granted temporary resident status, and by 2003, many community members received permanent residency. A milestone was reached in 2009 when the first African Hebrew Israelite was granted Israeli citizenship, with others following suit.

Despite these advancements, the community’s relationship with the Israeli government and society remains complex. They are not recognized as Jews by the Israeli rabbinate, which precludes them from becoming citizens under the Law of Return. This lack of recognition has led to ongoing discussions about identity, belonging, and the definition of Jewishness in Israel.

The community’s main settlement in Dimona, known as the Village of Peace, has become a unique cultural enclave within Israel. Here, they have developed various economic enterprises, including vegan restaurants, a food factory producing tofu and other plant-based products, and guest houses where visitors can experience their lifestyle and learn about their beliefs.

Cultural Expressions and Global Influence

The African Hebrew Israelites have developed distinct cultural expressions that blend African-American traditions with their interpretation of ancient Israelite practices. This fusion is evident in their music, dance, and festivals, which often incorporate both biblical themes and African rhythms and styles. The community’s musical group, the Soul Messengers, has gained international recognition, performing both in Israel and abroad. Their music serves as a powerful medium for expressing their spiritual beliefs and cultural identity, while also attracting interest from outsiders.

The African Hebrew Israelites’ unique lifestyle and beliefs have drawn attention from various quarters, including high-profile celebrities and political figures who have visited their settlement. This global interest has helped the community establish connections with international entities and spread their message beyond Israel’s borders.

Education and Youth Integration

Education plays a central role in the community’s life, with their School of the Prophets providing instruction from kindergarten through high school. The curriculum balances standard academic subjects with teachings on the community’s spiritual beliefs, Hebrew language, and holistic health practices. This educational approach aims to preserve their cultural heritage while preparing younger generations for life in modern Israel.

In recent years, some members of the younger generation have chosen to serve in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), marking a significant step in the community’s integration into Israeli society. The IDF has made accommodations for their cultural and dietary practices, further facilitating this integration process.

Challenges and Controversies

Despite their progress, the African Hebrew Israelites have faced criticism and controversy. Their practice of polygamy has been at odds with Israeli law and societal norms. Additionally, their claim to be the true descendants of the ancient Israelites has been disputed by mainstream Jewish authorities and scholars, leading to ongoing debates about identity and authenticity.

The community has also grappled with internal challenges, including questions about leadership succession following the passing of Ben Ammi in 2014. However, they have demonstrated resilience in maintaining their unique way of life and spiritual practices.

Environmental Sustainability and Health Research

The African Hebrew Israelites’ emphasis on environmental sustainability has garnered attention from researchers and environmentalists. Their commitment to a plant-based diet and sustainable living practices aligns with growing global concerns about climate change and environmental degradation.

Furthermore, their health outcomes have attracted interest from medical professionals. The community’s low rates of chronic diseases typically prevalent in African-American communities have led to studies examining the potential health benefits of their lifestyle. This research not only validates their practices but also contributes to broader discussions about diet, lifestyle, and public health.

Conclusion

The African Hebrew Israelites of Jerusalem represent a unique cultural and spiritual phenomenon that challenges conventional notions of identity, religion, and nationality. Their journey from the United States to West Africa and finally to Israel reflects broader themes of diaspora, the search for roots, and the complex interplay between spirituality and cultural authenticity in the modern world.

As they continue to evolve and adapt within Israeli society, the African Hebrew Israelites remain a testament to the power of conviction and community. Their story is one of perseverance in the face of adversity, cultural preservation amidst change, and the ongoing negotiation of identity in a globalized world. Whether viewed as a religious movement, a cultural experiment, or a unique social phenomenon, the African Hebrew Israelites of Jerusalem continue to provoke thought and discussion about the nature of belonging, spirituality, and the diverse tapestry of human experience.