Jerusalemite Families

Introduction:

The Jerusalemites are less than half of the population in Jerusalem. They are about 37% of the total population in Jerusalem. The rest 63% is accounted for the Israeli settlements. The Occupation works to reduce the percentage of the Jerusalemite population to less than 30%, to enhance the demographic preponderance of the settlements.

The Arab Canaanites:

The Canaanites settled in Jerusalem 2500 years ago. They gave it their character that hasn’t changed despite the long times that have passed. It was called the Land of Canaan after them. Most of the Jerusalemite families are descendants of the Canaanites.

The Origin of the Jerusalemite Families:

The origin of the Jerusalemite families can be divided into 3 parts; some are originally from Jerusalem, others are rooted from other cities like Hebron, and other families have been displaced during the Palestinian Exodus (Nakba) from Jerusalem to Jordan and Ramallah.

The History of the Jerusalemite Families:

The Jerusalemite families have long and genuine history. Some of them have history that goes back to hundreds and even thousands of years, like Al-Ghawanma family, that has been there for more than 1000 years. It was named after their great grandfather Ghanem.   Also, there is Ad-Dajani family, that are related to Prophet Mohammed, PBUH. Moreover, we have Abu Ghosh family. They moved to Jerusalem in the 16th century, and the Ottoman Sultan entrusted them with guarding the road between Jerusalem and Jaffa. Other family is Al-’Afifi, that is also considered one of the old families in Jerusalem. They lived in the Argon School. There are a lot of Jerusalemite families with long history.

The Suffering of the Jerusalemite Families:

The Jerusalemite families suffer from the menace of the Israeli occupation. The occupying authorities try to reduce the percentage of their population in Jerusalem and increase the numbers of settlers, in order to control Jerusalem. They do that by imposing taxes, arresting Jerusalemite people, and storming their houses, demolishing them, and preventing reconstruction. Also, they close their shops.

Conclusion:

There are many Jerusalemite families with long history and pure origins. Most of them still exist in the City of Jerusalem and live there. Some of them have been displaced, and are still waiting to go back home. Despite all the harassment and suffering, the Jerusalemites are still standing still and strong in the face of the Israeli Occupation.