A Cultural Journey Through Time

Culture

The Traditions of the Jews of Lebanon

Lebanese Jewish culture reflected the country itself: Arabic at home and in the market, French at school, and a strong sense of belonging to Lebanon. Many families came from Syria, Iraq, and Turkey and added their own traditions to those of the local community.

Life centered on Wadi Abu Jamil in Beirut, with its synagogues, schools, and clubs, and on summers in mountain towns like Aley and Bhamdoun. At the table, families shared dishes like kibbeh, tabbouleh, and labneh, the same foods their neighbors loved.

Today most Lebanese Jews and their descendants live in Brazil, France, Canada, the United States, and Israel. JIMENA's oral histories help preserve their memories of a community that is now almost gone.

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