Vanishing Tribe

The scene inside Beth El synagogue is resplendent with Jewish tradition. Fathers and sons wearing yarmulkes are singing from prayer books. In a Shabbat, or Sabbath, ritual familiar to Jews everywhere, Rabbi Israel Hazout leads the congregation through a Hebrew reading of the Torah-Judaic teachings inscribed on a ceremonial scroll. "We lead a normal Jewish life," he says after the three-hour service. "People practice their religion how they like."

Unexpected words, perhaps, from a Jewish citizen in a Muslim country. But Morocco has long promoted tolerance, encouraging Jews to practice their customs alongside the Muslim majority. Yet despite...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!