Samaritans

Samaritans are an ethnoreligious community following Samaritanism.

Overview

The Samaritans are a small community centered in the West Bank and Israel, claiming descent from the ancient Israelites. They follow a version of the Torah that differs from the Jewish Masoretic text and maintain religious practices distinct from Judaism. The community is one of the oldest in the world, with roots going back over 2,500 years.

Method/Content

Samaritan religious practice centers on the Torah (which they call the Samaritan Pentateuch), the holiness of Mount Gerizim, and thePassover sacrifice performed annually. They maintain a priestly class (Cohanim) and follow laws regarding purity and sacrifice. The Samaritan holy language is Biblical Hebrew written in the Samaritan script.

Purpose/Benefits

The Samaritans preserve a version of ancient Israelite religion distinct from Rabbinic Judaism. Their faith maintains practices including animal sacrifice and pilgrimage to Mount Gerizim that are central to their identity.

Verification Notes

• Approximately 800 adherents as of recent census data
• Mount Gerizim in the West Bank is their holiest site