The Saint Of Beersheba (suny Series In Anthropology And Judaic Studies)

Weingrod presents an anthropological study of the development of a new Jewish saint, or zaddik, in Israel and of the annual pilgrimage to his enshrined grave by thousands of North African Jews. It is the fascinating story of how Rabbi Chayim Chouri, an aged Tunisian rabbi, became famed as the "Saint of Beersheba," after his death in the 1950s. The author focuses upon the meaning of this event in the lives of the participants, and interprets the relevance of mystical-religious traditions to present-day Israeli society, politics, and culture. It includes a photographic essay that brilliantly evokes the joyful events that occur during the ritual and festivity of the pilgrimage. Jones traces the St. Nicholas legend from its origins in 4th c. Asia Minor through the Middle Ages to its form in 19th c. New York. A reprint of the 1978 original. Investigates the yearly pilgrimage and celebration at the grave of Rabbi Chayam Chouri (1885-1957), a Tunisian Jewish leader who emigrated to Israel in 1955. Weingrod (anthropology, Ben Gurion University, Beersheba, Israel) pursues historical and anthropological questions of sainthood and devotion in modern Israel. Includes photographs. Paper edition (unseen), $10.95. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR.