Les Juifs du monde arabe

By Georges Bensoussan

Book Description

In a world where religious harmony often seems elusive, historian Georges Bensoussan examines one of history's most complex interfaith relationships through a scholarly yet accessible lens. Drawing from extensive military, diplomatic, and administrative archives, this work explores the intricate dynamics between Jewish communities and the broader Arab world across centuries of shared history.

Rather than accepting simplified narratives of either golden age harmony or perpetual conflict, Bensoussan presents a nuanced portrait that acknowledges both protection and subjugation within these relationships. The book traces how Jewish minorities navigated life in Arab societies, revealing patterns of coexistence that were simultaneously supportive and restrictive.

The author's investigation spans from medieval foundations through the turbulent period of decolonization, offering readers insight into how the Muslim world's encounter with Western modernity shaped interfaith relations. By refusing both romanticized legends and black-and-white thinking, this scholarly work provides a balanced examination of historical realities.

For readers seeking to understand the complexities of religious coexistence and the forces that shape intercultural relationships, this book offers valuable perspective on how communities with different faiths have navigated shared spaces throughout history. The work contributes to deeper comprehension of how historical patterns continue to influence contemporary interfaith dialogue and understanding.