Benyamim Tsedaka and his brother Yefet founded The Israelite Samaritan Information Institute. The Institute promotes awareness of Israelite Samaritan heritage, history, and culture. This unique community traces its origins back through one hundred and thirty consecutive generations living in the Holy Land.
The Samaritan tradition is at the root of the monotheistic religions of the Middle East. The heart of the community is their holy site of Mount Gerizim, near Nablus in Samaria. The area falls under the jurisdiction of the Palestine Authority. About half of the population lives in Holon, a suburb of Tel Aviv. The families in Holon also have homes on Mount Gerizim, where they celebrate Sabbaths and Festivals together.
The Israelite Samaritans maintain their ancient tradition, drawing interest and respect from their Jewish, Christian and Moslem neighbours.
Benyamim Tsedaka: Historian
Benyamim Tsedaka (“Benny”) has written many books and articles on Samaritan affairs. He and his brother Yefet publish a bi-weekly newspaper about Israelite Samaritan life. The AB Samaritan News is printed in 3 languages: ancient Samaritan, modern Hebrew and modern Arabic.
In 2013 Benny’s Israelite Samaritan Version of the Torah was published by Eerdmans, USA. It is the first English translation of the Samaritan bible. The Samaritan Pentateuch and Masoretic texts of the Torah are laid out in parallel columns, with important differences noted. The book is an invaluable resource for those wishing to gain a deeper understanding of the Bible.
The Israelite Samaritan Version of the Torah by Benyamim Tsedaka is available directly from the website of A.B Institute of Samaritan Studies and also from Amazon.
Benny has also written a history of his people, The History of the Israelite Keepers Based on their Own Sources and A Complete Commentary on the Torah. Both books are in Modern Hebrew and are available through the A.B Institute website, on the link above.
Benny travels to Europe, North America and South America each year, spreading knowledge of the Samaritan heritage. Contact Hannah at the A.B Institute (link above) to arrange lectures and workshops.
Benyamim Tsedaka: Choir Leader
The Samaritan musical heritage includes a cappella vocals sung in ancient Samaritan. Benny is conductor and manager of the Israelite Samaritan Choir, which performs at festivals and theatre stages around the world. Appearances have included the Mediterranean Voices Festival in Girona, Tokyo, Paris, London and Berlin.
Visit their website for more information about Israelite Samaritans.
For media and other enquiries about the Choir please Contact Hannah at the Israelite Samaritan Information Institute.
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