Circassian Community in Israel

Holy Land Revealed

The Circassians are an ethnic group native to the North Caucasus region of Russia. However, a few Circassians have also made their home in Israel, primarily due to historical events. Here is an overview of the Circassian community in Israel:



Circassian Community in Israel – Historical Background:

Migration to the Ottoman Empire: In the late 19th century, many Circassians, along with other ethnic groups from the Caucasus, migrated to the Ottoman Empire (modern-day Turkey) to escape the Russian conquest of their homeland. Some Circassians eventually moved to other parts of the Ottoman Empire, including the region that is now Israel.


Maronites in Israel
Blog Minorities
Druze Women in Israel.

Arrival in Israel: Circassians began to arrive in the area now known as Israel during the late Ottoman period and early British Mandate era. They settled in a few villages, including Kfar Kama and Rehaniya, in the northern part of the country.



Cultural and Social Characteristics:

Language: The Circassians have their language, Adyghe, but many Circassians in Israel also speak Hebrew and Arabic due to their presence in the country.

Religion: The majority of Circassians in Israel are Sunni Muslims. Their religious practices and cultural traditions are influenced by their faith.

Lifestyle: Circassians in Israel traditionally have a rural lifestyle, engaging in farming and animal husbandry. They maintain a strong sense of community and cultural identity.

Military Service: Circassians in Israel have a long history of military service, both during the Ottoman period and in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). They are known for their strong martial traditions and have significantly contributed to Israel’s security.


Galilee Day Tour
Galilee Day Tour - Monfort Castle Aerial
Montfort Castle

Challenges and Opportunities:

Although small, the Circassian community in Israel has become integral to the country’s diverse social fabric. They have integrated into Israeli society while preserving their unique cultural heritage. Challenges faced by the community include issues related to identity, cultural preservation, and maintaining their distinctive traditions in a modern context.


Ethnic Groups in Israel
Two Arab Men Talking

Circassian Community in IsraelPreservation of Culture:

Efforts are being made to preserve Circassian culture and traditions in Israel. This is achieved through cultural events, language preservation, and teaching Circassian history to younger generations.

The Circassian community in Israel represents a unique and lesser-known aspect of the country’s multicultural makeup. Their presence adds to the richness and diversity of Israeli society, contributing both to the cultural mosaic of the nation and its defense forces. More about them on Wikipedia.

arik-about

Hi! My name is Arik, an Israeli native who dedicated his life to sharing my passion for the Holy Land with those interested in knowing more about this incredible piece of land. I’m the Chief Guide at ‘APT Private Tours in Israel’.

Did you know the Hoopoe is Israel's national bird?! For more cool info about Israel, join our ever growing community and get exclusive travel tips, and giveaways!

Simon Peter

RELATED POSTS

Pashkevil

A pashkevil is a poster on a public wall in an Ultra-Orthodox Jewish community like Mea Shearim, Jerusalem.

Rosh Hashanah

Rosh Hashanah, one of the most significant holidays in the Jewish calendar, ushers in a time of reflection, renewal, and introspection.

Sukkot

Sukkot, the Feast of Tabernacles, is a vibrant and joyous Jewish festival celebrating harvest season and historical events.

Sermon on the Mount

The Sermon on the Mount is a collection of sayings and teachings of Jesus Christ; which emphasizes his moral teaching found in Matthew.

Yom Kippur

Yom Kippur, (Day of Atonement), is the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. It is a solemn and sacred day with profound significance for Jews.

The Druze

The Druze are an Arabs ethnoreligious group originating who self-identify as The People of Monotheism, with a community in Israel.

Few Against Many

The Expression few against many is very known to Jewish people. Actually, the term is based on a theological view. Due to the fact that ...

The Last Supper

The Last Supper is the final meal that; in the Gospel accounts; Jesus shared with his apostles in Jerusalem before his crucifixion. The Last Supper provides the scriptural basis for the Eucharist; also known ...

Catherine of Alexandria

Catherine of Alexandria is according to tradition, a Christian saint and virgin, who was martyred in the early 4th century by the emperor Maxentius.

Resheph

Resheph (also Reshef) was a deity associated with plague (or a personification of plague), war, and sometimes thunder in ancient Canaanite religion. The originally Eblaite ...

Need help?

Skip to content