A new historical novel exploring the identity, heritage and social experiences of Ethiopia’s Beta Israel community was launched Tuesday at the Stay Easy Plus Hotel in Addis Ababa.
Titled ‘Behind the Synagogue’ (Kemukrabu Bestjerba), the book was written by Eyosias Esundale and draws on his doctoral research. It combines historical research with narrative fiction to examine the community’s origins, cultural resilience and the social hardships associated with discrimination and exclusion.
The launch also provided a personal occasion for Eyosias, who honored his parents’ 55th wedding anniversary during the event by dressing them in ceremonial robes.
The novel follows Abate, a young scholar pursuing a doctorate in finance who begins a journey of personal and historical discovery. The story moves between the Kechene and Gulele neighborhoods of Addis Ababa and the towns of Merhabete and Debre Berhan.
Through Abate’s experiences, the book explores questions of identity, belonging and the psychological effects of historical discrimination. It also examines the ways in which family, faith and community traditions help people preserve their dignity and cultural identity.
The novel incorporates research into the ancient origin stories of the Beta Israel community, including narratives connected to the destruction of the Second Temple. It also refers to the community’s clandestine migrations during Operation Moses in 1984 and Operation Solomon in 1991.
Zelalem Girma, a language consultant on the project, said the novel captures the atmosphere and linguistic character of historic Addis Ababa. He said the work also helps explain terms such as “Falasha” and “Kayla,” which were historically used as derogatory labels against members of the community.
According to Girma, the novel goes beyond documenting hardship. It also highlights cultural resilience, traditional communal values and the strength of family relationships.
The story features the enduring marriage of Abba Bitew and his wife, whose six-decade relationship serves as a symbol of family commitment and continuity. It also follows the developing romance between Abate and Selam, a clinical nurse.
The launch brought together scholars, faith leaders, authors and community advocates who have worked to document Beta Israel history and support community members in Ethiopia and abroad.
Among those recognized at the event were Dr. Pastor Seleshi Kebede, who has researched anti-stigma efforts in Kechene; Aba Eshetu, an elder who has documented Beta Israel history in Ethiopia and Israel; and W/ro Zenebech, who leads annual medical outreach programs.
Community advocates Solomon Assefa and Pastor Demis Mamo, local author Kebelew Zelelew, and youth leader Mikiyas Legesse, founder of the Selihom relief initiative, were also acknowledged during the gathering.
The novel presents a measured reflection on social exclusion and calls for unity, education and mutual respect. It rejects identity-based division and encourages greater understanding among Ethiopia’s diverse communities.
By translating academic research into an accessible literary form, ‘Behind the Synagogue’ aims to preserve cultural history while encouraging dialogue and social reconciliation.
The author said the book was intended not only to recount the challenges faced by the Beta Israel community, but also to present its resilience, traditions and contributions to Ethiopia’s broader social history.
