The old Jewish cemetery in Baghdad, a relic of a once-thriving Jewish community, holds the stories of generations who contributed to Iraq’s social, cultural, and economic fabric. It was more than a burial ground — it symbolized the deep roots of Jewish life in Baghdad, once home to one of the most vibrant Jewish communities in the Arab world.
A Historical Overview: From Jerusalem to Babylon
The Jewish presence in Mesopotamia dates back more than 2,500 years, beginning with the Babylonian exile in 586 BCE. After the destruction of the First Temple by King Nebuchadnezzar, exiled Jews settled in Babylon, adapting to their new circumstances while preserving their traditions. This period gave rise to the Babylonian Talmud, a cornerstone of Jewish scholarship.
By the time Arab armies conquered Mesopotamia, Jewish life was deeply entrenched in the region.
Baghdad, strategically located on the Tigris River, became a hub for trade and culture, attracting Jewish merchants, artisans, and scholars. Over the centuries, the Jewish community contributed significantly to Baghdad’s golden age, cementing its place as a vital part of the city’s identity.
The Jewish Cemetery: A Sacred Landmark
In the 19th century, Baghdad’s growing Jewish population established a cemetery in the Bab al-Sharqi district. This sacred space became a repository of memory, where Hebrew and Judeo-Arabic epitaphs told the stories of the departed. The cemetery symbolized the resilience of a community that, despite persecution, thrived and enriched Baghdad’s cultural and economic landscape. […]
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