About

Who We Are

We are a group of Lebanese young professionals born in the diaspora, whose hearts are tethered to the stories of our grandparents—their voices still echoing in our minds, telling us of their deep love for Lebanon, the land of cedars. We grew up hearing tales of their homeland, stories filled with warmth, joy, and an unshakable bond to a place they once called home. But alongside those beautiful memories, we also learned of the devastation they witnessed—the destruction of the areas they lived in, and the deep sorrow that followed. Yet, through it all, their love for Lebanon never wavered.

Today, we stand at a crossroads. The Lebanese Jewish community, once vibrant and proud, is almost invisible in Lebanon, and as time passes, we risk blending into other cultures in Europe and America. We are a small community, and with each passing day, the 5,000-year history we carry feels like it's slipping through our fingers, like whispers lost in the wind. But we refuse to let that history fade away. We refuse to allow this legacy to be forgotten.

This initiative is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Lebanese Jewish community—a community that has persevered through centuries of change. We are determined to ensure that our story, our culture, and our history are not lost, but preserved for future generations. We dream of a time when the Jewish community in Lebanon will thrive once again, in the heart of Beirut, where it once flourished. We hope for a future where we can return to our roots, reclaiming our place in the land that is so deeply intertwined with who we are.

This is our mission, our passion, and our promise—to honor the past and to build a future where Lebanon's Jewish heritage will shine brightly once again alongside all other sects in Lebanon.

"When I was growing up in West Beirut, we didn't define ourselves by whether we were Jewish, Sunni, or Christian. We were simply Lebanese." — Gido A.T.

Wadi El Jamil mission

Our Mission

We envision a world where the history, culture, and contributions of Lebanese Jews are recognized, valued, and preserved. Through education, collaboration, and the sharing of personal and collective narratives, we hope to build a stronger sense of identity, belonging, and continuity for those who feel disconnected from their heritage.

A Shared Dream

As we continue our work in the diaspora, we hold onto the hope that one day, the Lebanese Jewish community can flourish again in Lebanon and truly call it home. Many have left but dream of returning, while others have never had the chance to experience Lebanon firsthand. Despite the distance, our love for Lebanon remains unwavering.

This year, in 2025, the Maghen Abraham Synagogue turns 100—a powerful reminder of our deep-rooted history in the country. This milestone should be an opportunity to bring it back to life, ensuring that our heritage remains visible and vibrant. By fostering dialogue, preserving our traditions, and building connections across generations, we hope to reignite the presence of our community and its cultural legacy in Lebanon.

Wadi El Jamil mission

The Story of Wadi El Jamil

Wadi El Jamil began as a grassroots initiative by descendants of Lebanese Jews in 2018, seeking to reconnect with their ancestral heritage and preserve the stories that were at risk of being lost to time.

What started as a small collection of family photographs and oral histories has grown into a comprehensive resource platform dedicated to documenting the Jewish experience in Lebanon from ancient times to the modern era.

Our work brings together researchers, historians, community members, and cultural enthusiasts who share a passion for understanding and celebrating this unique cultural intersection.

A Rich Historical Legacy

The Jewish presence in what is now Lebanon dates back to biblical times, with communities flourishing particularly during the Ottoman era and into the 20th century.

Centered primarily in Beirut, Sidon, and other coastal cities, Lebanese Jewish communities developed distinct cultural traditions while maintaining strong connections to both their religious heritage and Lebanese national identity.

By the mid-20th century, Beirut's Jewish community was known for its vibrant cultural life, educational institutions, and economic contributions. Political changes in the region led to significant emigration after the 1950s, but the cultural legacy of Lebanese Judaism continues to be an important piece of the country's diverse historical tapestry.

Historical Lebanese Jewish community
← Back to "About" Tabs