Karaites (Noun)
Meaning
A Jewish sect that recognizes only the Hebrew Scriptures as the source of divinely inspired legislation and denies the authority of the postbiblical tradition of the Talmud; the sect arose in Iraq in the eighth century.
Classification
Nouns denoting groupings of people or objects.
Examples
- The Karaites have a long history that dates back to the eighth century in Iraq, where they first rejected the Talmud's authority.
- A Karaite community in Eastern Europe preserved many ancient texts and manuscripts, contributing to the study of Jewish history.
- Despite being a small minority, the Karaites had a significant impact on Jewish thought and biblical interpretation.
- Karaite scholars were known for their expertise in Hebrew linguistics and their translation of Jewish texts.
- In recent years, some Israeli Karaites have sought to reconnect with their Middle Eastern heritage and traditions.