History of the Jews in Saudi Arabia

The history of the Jews in Saudi Arabia dates back to before biblical times. Today Jewish worship in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is prohibited.

People with an Israeli stamp in their passport government, or people who live openly Jewish, are not allowed into the kingdom. In the 1970s, had to foreigners who wish to work in the UK, to sign a written declaration that they are not Jewish.

Early History

According to some reports Jews first appeared in the time of the first temple in what is now Saudi Arabia. Serious immigration to the Arab peninsula began in the 2nd century AD. In the 6th and 7th centuries, there was a larger Jewish population in Hejaz.

The tribes of Medina

There were three main tribes of the Jews in Medina before the rise of Islam: Banu Nadir, the Banu Qainuqa, and the Banu Qurayza. Other tribes in the time of Mohammed:

  • Banu on
  • Banu Harith
  • Banu Dschuscham
  • Banu Alfageer
  • Banu Najjar
  • Banu Sa'ida
  • Banu Schutayba

The Journey of Benjamin of Tudela

Rabbi Benjamin of Tudela went on a journey from 1165 to 1173 to visit remote Jewish communities. He has also reached the area of ​​today's Saudi Arabia. The map shows its route that he has found Jews in Tayma and Khaybar. ( In the year 629 the campaign of Khaybar between Muhammad and the Jewish community of the city took place. ) The journey began Tudela to the Holy Land as a pilgrimage. His reasons for the trip are controversial.

Modern Times

Today there is virtually no Jewish presence in Saudi Arabia. Censuses do not mention Jews.

Jewish and Christian services have not been approved on Saudi Arabian soil.

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