Oriental Jewish

A term used to describe Jews of Middle Eastern and North African origin (Mizrahi), defined in contrast to Ashkenazi (European) Jews. In the context of Israeli society, Oriental Jews were stereotyped or depicted in cultural representations as embodying a “healthy new Jew” in contrast to the “miserable exile,” and their musical traditions were sometimes feared as being too close to Arabic culture.

Claims that use this term

• Israeli radio officials feared Oriental Jewish music was indistinguishable from Arabic music
• Oriental Jewish figures symbolized the healthy new Jew versus the miserable exile.