Jewish History of Samaria

The region of Samaria, located between Galilee to the north and Judea to the south, has a complex and fascinating history that spans over 1,000 years [1]. The city of Samaria was founded by King Omri around 880 B.C. and was the capital of the northern kingdom of Israel, while Jerusalem became the capital of the southern part, Judah.

History of Samaria

The history of Samaria is marked by its complex relationship with the Jewish people, with the Samaritans arguing that they were descendants of Joseph, through his sons Manasseh and Ephraim [1]. The Samaritans also believed that the center of worship should remain at Shechem, on Mount Gerizim, where it had been in the time of Joshua, while the Jews built their first temple at Jerusalem. The Samaritans produced their own version of the Pentateuch, the five books of Moses, which furthered the rift between the two groups.

The city of Samaria had a checkered history, with King Ahab building a temple to the pagan god Baal there, and Shalmaneser V, king of Assyria, sieging the city for three years before his successor, Sargon II, captured and destroyed the town, exiling the inhabitants to Assyria [1]. Herod the Great, the busiest builder in ancient Israel, rebuilt the city during his reign, renaming it Sebaste, to honor Roman emperor Caesar Augustus.

Significance in Judaism

The Jewish people believe that there is only one God who has established a covenant, or special agreement, with them, and that their Messiah hasn’t yet come—but will one day [2]. The history of Samaria is significant in Judaism, with the region being an important part of the Jewish people's history and identity. The relationship between the Jews and the Samaritans is complex, with the Samaritans being considered a mongrel race by the Jews due to their intermarriage with foreigners and their adoption of pagan gods [1].

What to watch

• The continued study of the history of Samaria and its significance in Jewish history
• The exploration of the complex relationship between the Jews and the Samaritans
• The understanding of the role of Samaria in the broader context of ancient Israel and the Jewish people's identity

The history of Samaria is a complex and fascinating topic that continues to be studied and explored by scholars and historians today. The significance of Samaria in Jewish history is undeniable, and its complex relationship with the Jewish people continues to be an important part of the Jewish identity.