Israel education lesson 2

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Diaspora

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The scattering of Jewish people from their ancestral homeland to live in communities around the world. Key Points: Began over 2,600 years ago; Jews forced to leave their land; communities spread across continents. Example: Jewish communities in Spain, Germany, Iraq, and the Caribbean.

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Persecution

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Cruel or unfair treatment of people because of their religion, race, or beliefs. Key Points: Jewish people faced persecution in many countries throughout history. Examples: Restrictions on jobs, housing limitations, forced conversions.

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Exile

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Being forced to leave your home country and live somewhere else. Key Points: Babylonian Exile (586 BCE) - Jewish leaders forced to Iraq; Spanish Inquisition (1492). Connection: Led to diaspora communities worldwide.

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Synagogue

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A Jewish house of worship and community gathering place. Key Points: Centers for prayer, learning, and community life in diaspora; adapted to local cultures. Example: Tzedek Ve-Shalom synagogue from Suriname, now in Jerusalem's Israel Museum.

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Spanish Inquisition

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A period in 1492 when Spanish rulers forced Jews to convert to Christianity, leave Spain, or face death. Key Points: Scattered Jewish communities to Caribbean and other parts of Europe; even converts faced continued suspicion.

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Temple

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The central place of Jewish worship in ancient Jerusalem, destroyed twice in history. Key Points: First Temple destroyed by Babylonians (586 BCE); Second Temple destroyed by Romans (70 CE). Connection: Destruction led to major diaspora and spread of Jewish communities worldwide.

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Old Yishuv

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Jewish communities that lived in Palestine before modern Zionism began. Key Points: Maintained continuous Jewish presence; life was difficult with poverty and limited rights. Example: Narrator's grandfather's family lived in Jerusalem for seven generations.

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Identity

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The characteristics and beliefs that make a person or group who they are. Key Points: Jewish identity includes religion, culture, history, and connection to ancestral homeland. Example: Jewish people maintained identity while adapting to cultures worldwide.