Khalil, al-
Khalil, al- - Also known as Hebron.
Overview
Al-Khalil (Arabic: الخليل, al-Khalīl, Turkish: El Halil), commonly referred to in the West as Hebron, is a Palestinian town located on the West Bank of the River Jordan. This ancient city has been under Israeli control since 1968 and holds profound religious significance for both Muslims and Jews. It is traditionally accepted as the site of the tomb of Abraham, regarded as a patriarch by both faiths.
Historical Significance
Al-Khalil is one of the oldest continual settlements in the world. It is known for its deep historical and religious roots stretching back thousands of years. For Muslims, it is Venerated because of both the religious significance of Prophet Abraham (Ibrahim in Arabic) and the Prophets buried there. For Jews, Abraham is considered the founding father of the Covenant.
Tensions and Conflicts
In the late twentieth century, the city has been a site of significant tension and conflict between Jews and Muslims. One of the most notable incidents occurred on February 25, 1994, when Baruch Goldstein, a fanatic Israeli settler, opened fire on Muslim worshipers inside the Ibrahimi Mosque (also known to Jews as the Cave of the Patriarchs), killing 29 and injuring more than 100. This event deepened the divisions and escalated the conflict further, resulting in increased security measures and ongoing disputes over access to and control of religious sites.
Etymology
The name “al-Khalil” is derived from Arabic, which translates to “The Friend [of God],” referring to Prophet Abraham. The Hebrew name “Hebron” has similar biblical roots.
Further Reading
For those interested in exploring the topic in more depth, consider the following books:
- “Hebron: A Microcosm of Conflict” by David Wilder
- “Sacred Interest: Exploring the Cultural and Religious Heritage of Hebron/san Cultural Perspective” edited by Hamid Dabashi
- “Islamic Jerusalem and its Christians: A History of Tolerance and Tensions” by Maher Abu-Munshar
- “Palestinian Identity: The Construction of Modern National Consciousness” by Rashid Khalidi
Conclusion
Al-Khalil serves as a poignant example of how places of profound historical and religious significance can become a focal point of modern conflict. Understanding its deep historical roots and cultural context is essential for comprehending its current complexities.
Takeaways
- Al-Khalil (Hebron) is a crucial historical and religious site for Muslims and Jews.
- The city has been a continuous site of settlement for thousands of years.
- It has been under Israeli control since 1968.
- Al-Khalil has a troubling history of tensions and acts of violence, notably the 1994 massacre by Baruch Goldstein.
- The name “al-Khalil” reflects the city’s spiritual connection to Prophet Abraham.
Understanding the multi-layered history and the significance of such sites can contribute to greater cultural sensitivity and perspective in global contexts.
