The following command will set your character's faith to 'Samaritanism.'
The following command will add the specified amount of fervor to 'Samaritanism.'
Samaritan, also known as Shamerim, refers to a group of people who trace their lineage back to the Israelite tribes of Ephraim and Menasseh — descendants of Joseph. They constitute a unique religious and ethnic group that has managed to preserve their distinct identity and traditions for generations.
The Samaritans emerged from the tribes that remained in the northern Kingdom of Israel after most Israelites were exiled by Assyrians in 722 BC. They survived centuries of political turmoil and socio-religious conflicts, especially with neighbouring Jewish communities. Today, they are largely concentrated in western parts of the West Bank and the city of Holon in Israel.
The Samaritans' distinctive faith is closely linked to the Judaic tradition but has its unique elements. They believe in one God and revere the Pentateuch as their holy scripture. They, however, reject other Jewish texts like the Talmud, Mishnah, and other books of the Old Testament. The Samaritans observe the Sabbath and other traditional Jewish festivals, but their rites and rituals have specific differences. One of the most notable observances is their yearly Passover ceremony at Mount Gerizim, which they believe to be the chosen place of God, contrary to the Jewish belief in Jerusalem's Temple Mount.
The Samaritan community has faced significant challenges in terms of population decline. However, in recent years, their numbers have seen a slight increase and are currently estimated to be around 800. They speak both Modern Hebrew and Arabic, but they also preserve the use of the ancient Samaritan Hebrew and Aramaic in their religious rites.
The relationships between Samaritans and Jewish communities have often been marked by conflicts and disputes, arising from religious and territorial disagreements. However, contemporary relations have improved significantly, especially after the establishment of the State of Israel. Nowadays, Samaritans are recognized as a distinct religious community within Israel, enjoying full citizenship rights.
The Samaritans offer a glimpse into historical narratives and religious traditions that span across centuries. As one of the smallest religious communities in the world, they demonstrate the resilience of faith and cultural heritage amidst societal changes and challenges. Their unique existence and traditions continue to fascinate scholars, historians, and tourists alike.
Descended from the tribes that settled Samaria, Samaritans follow an original, unchanged version of the Torah. In this way they are practicing the true religion of Moses, serving the direct duties granted by God.
The Samaritan religion, also known as Samaritanism, is an ancient Abrahamic religion that originated from the Israelites of the biblical Kingdom of Israel. It is distinct from Judaism, with its own unique interpretations of the Torah, and its followers, known as Samaritans, revere Mount Gerizim as their holiest site.
Faith | Faith ID |
---|---|
Haymanot | haymanot |
Kabarism (Kuzarism) | kabarism |
Karaism | karaism |
Malabarism | malabarism |
Merkabah | merkabah |
Rabbinism | rabbinism |
Samaritanism | samaritan |