DESCRIPTION:

“Once they were kings. A half million strong, they matched their faith with fervor and out-matched the Moslem and Christian tribesmen around them to rule the mountain highlands around Lake Tana. They called themselves Beta Israel—the house of Israel—and used the Torah to guide their prayers and memories of the heights of Jerusalem as they lived in their thatched huts in Ethiopia. But their neighbors called them Falashas—the alien ones, the invaders. And even three hundred years of rule, even the black features that matched those of all the people around them did not make the Jews of Ethiopia secure governors of their destiny in Africa.”

 -From "Falashas: The Forgotten Jews,” Baltimore Jewish Times, 9 November 1979.

 

Ethiopian Jews, called Beta Israel, trace their heritage back to the time of the First Temple. They lived across northern Ethiopia, in more than 500 small villages, alongside Muslims and Christians. In the late 20th century, the Beta Israel made renewed contacts with worldwide Jewish communities. After Halakhic and constitutional discussions, Israeli officials decided in 1977 that the Israeli Law of Return applied to the Beta Israel. Aliyah operations were undertaken to transport the Ethiopian Jews to Israel; many had died while felling across the desert to Sudan, and the rest were rescued from refugee camps. Today, most of the Jewish community has made Aliyah to Israel. However, controversial conversion and migration laws have left some Jews behind in Ethiopia today, in limbo, hoping to reunite with family who have already made Aliyah. This remaining community hopes to be in Israel by 2018.

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On this journey, visit some of the remaining Jewish communities from Addis Ababa to the more remote Lake Taha region. Meet and talk with them about their lives, their understanding of Israel, their faith, their communications with family who have made Aliyah, and their hopes for the future. Also learn also about the early Christian faith that surrounds them with visits to ancient Axum and the iconic rock-hewn churches of Lalibela. Ethiopia offers a wide range of experiences for the visitor: the origin of civilization with the Lucy discovery, the final resting place of the Ark of the Covenant, the only African country with its own alphabet and calendar, and a surprising diversity of scenery.

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CONSIDER:

The Beta Israel are hoping to have made Aliyah to Israel by 2018. Therefore, if you would like to see them in Ethiopia, there is likely not too much more time. Although the Israeli Authorities are equivocating on whether the remaining Beta Israel can come to Israel, the hope is that it will happen.

 

Ethiopia is a third world country. 4-Star hotels are provided where possible; they will be clean with en-suite facilities but do not expect European standards. There are frequent water and power outages even in the best hotels. Hotels promise a Wi-Fi connection – but that may not be consistent or true.

 

OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS & ADD-ONS:

Consider extending the trip and learn about Ethiopian communities in Israel. Or travel to Israel next to visit with the Ethiopians who have made Aliyah there.