The Jewish Status of Ethiopian Jews and Chabad's Viewpoint

Ethiopian Jews, or Beta Israel, have faced debates over their Jewish status. Renowned halachic authorities like Rabbi Ovadia Yosef and the Radbaz affirmed their Jewish lineage, but Israel’s Chief Rabbinate initially required symbolic conversion as a precaution. Most Beta Israel complied and gained recognition in Israel.

The Chabad movement largely accepts Beta Israel who underwent symbolic conversion, though misunderstandings persist among some Chabad emissaries abroad due to ignorance, not racism. The Lubavitcher Rebbe recognized Beta Israel’s Jewishness but refrained from issuing a formal ruling.

Today, Israel’s Rabbinate follows Rabbi Yosef’s 1973 ruling, removing the need for conversion. To address lingering misconceptions, Rabbi Dr. Sharon Shalom calls for educating Chabad emissaries about Beta Israel’s status. He emphasizes Chabad’s inclusive values, which prioritize acceptance and tolerance, aligning with the recognition of Ethiopian Jews as fully Jewish.

Read Original Article: Ynetnews

Image credit - Reuters