Mizrahi

Mizrahi, from the Hebrew mizraḥ meaning “east” or “sunrise,” is an ethnoreligious designation used for Jews originating from the Middle East and North Africa. The term is used to describe a broad cluster of communities whose historical roots lie in places such as Iraq, Iran, Syria, Lebanon, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Yemen, and other parts of the region. In some contexts, Mizrahi and Sephardi identities are grouped together as non-Ashkenazi traditions, though scholars distinguish Mizrahi communities by their distinct historical and cultural roots.

Historically, Mizrahi Jews formed thriving communities under various empires in the Middle East and North Africa, developing unique religious customs, languages, and cultural practices. The 20th century brought large-scale migration from these regions to Israel and to Europe or the Americas, driven by conflict, persecution, and political change. In Israel, Mizrahi Jews became a major demographic group and have significantly shaped national culture and politics, while maintaining diverse traditions that reflect their varied backgrounds.

Linguistically, Mizrahi Jews have spoken a range of languages from their regions—such as Arabic dialects, Persian, Turkish, Kurdish, and Judeo-Arabic—alongside Hebrew. Religious life often follows local nusach rites, with liturgical and musical traditions that reflect Middle Eastern influences. In contemporary discourse, Mizrahi identity emphasizes shared historical experiences and cultural heritage across diaspora communities, while continuing to evolve within national contexts where they reside.