Before the tragic events of 1929, Hebron was known for its history of peaceful coexistence between Jews and Arabs. For centuries, Jews and Arabs lived side by side in Hebron, sharing neighborhoods, markets, and daily life. This long-standing relationship was characterized by mutual respect and a sense of community, with Jewish and Arab families interacting closely, often even assisting each other in times of need.
The peaceful coexistence was abruptly shattered by the violence of 1929, but the actions of several Palestinians during the massacre demonstrated that the spirit of shared humanity persisted even in the darkest of times.
Sheikh Talib Markar was one of those who protected Jews during the massacre, risking his life to hide rabbis and students. The Abu Shaker and Hijazi families also sheltered Jewish residents, standing up against the violence. The Shatwi family played a crucial role by misleading rioters and defending their Jewish neighbors. These acts of bravery were rooted in the deep bonds that had been formed over generations of living together in Hebron. The Kurdia family, who was recognized on International Rescuers Day the following year, was thought to have saved hundreds by breaking a hole in the wall between two basement refuges.
These acts of courage came at great personal risk, as the violence was widespread and brutal.
These Palestinians acted out of a profound sense of shared humanity, risking their lives to protect others, despite the fierce conflict around them. Their actions serve as a testament to the possibility of coexistence and the power of individual courage to transcend the divides of ethnicity and religion, even in the face of overwhelming violence. These stories, though often overshadowed by the broader conflict, are vital to understanding the complex history of Hebron and the enduring potential for compassion and mutual respect amidst the most difficult circumstances.
These acts of bravery were not isolated incidents. Palestinian families across Hebron opened their homes to Jews, offered them food and shelter, and sometimes even escorted them to safety outside the city. These Palestinians demonstrated remarkable courage and humanity, standing against the violence and hatred that engulfed Hebron during that dark period. The 1929 Hebron massacre remains a painful chapter in the history of Jewish-Arab relations in the region. However, the actions of these Palestinian rescuers highlight the complexities of that time, revealing instances of solidarity and compassion that transcended ethnic and religious divides. The memory of these brave individuals is an important reminder of the potential for coexistence and mutual respect, even in the most challenging circumstances.
Their stories have been acknowledged in various commemorations and historical accounts, serving as a testament to the power of individual acts of courage in the face of collective violence. The actions of these Palestinian rescuers continue to inspire those who seek to build bridges between communities in conflict, emphasizing the shared humanity that exists even in times of strife.
Why the Palestinians in Hebron who saved Jews were chosen to be honored in the Garden of Rescuers: Hebron, since 1929, has been a symbol of the strife and the walls that divide Palestinians and Jews. It is important to ensure when remembering the darkest days of conflict, that we also remember the bright stars who risk their lives for others. These rescuers and their stories are an inspiration to all.
