Bosnia’s National Museum is facing backlash for its decision to donate proceeds from the display of the Sarajevo Haggadah, a significant medieval Jewish manuscript, to aid the people of Gaza. The museum stated the funds would support "the people of Palestine who suffer systematic, calculated and cold-blooded terror, directly by the state of Israel." This move has ignited a firestorm of criticism from Jewish organizations worldwide, who accuse the museum of antisemitism and politicizing a symbol of heritage.

Key Takeaways

  • The Sarajevo National Museum will donate ticket sales from the Sarajevo Haggadah exhibition to Gaza.
  • The decision has drawn sharp criticism from Jewish organizations, including the Anti-Defamation League, citing antisemitism and politicization.
  • Museum director Mirsad Sijaric defended the move, stating it’s a stance against perceived evil and that he has received support from Jewish individuals globally.
  • The Sarajevo Haggadah is a rare, illuminated manuscript dating back to 1350, with a history of survival through significant historical events.
  • Leaders within Bosnia’s Jewish community have expressed concern that the decision could damage Sarajevo’s reputation and the legacy of the Haggadah.

A Symbol of Heritage and Controversy

The Sarajevo Haggadah, a rare and illuminated manuscript dating back to 1350, is considered one of the most precious religious texts of the Middle Ages. It has survived centuries, including Nazi occupation and the Bosnian War, becoming a symbol of Sarajevo’s rich, multi-ethnic history. The museum’s decision to link its exhibition to the ongoing conflict in Gaza has deeply divided opinions.

Museum Defends Decision Amidst Criticism

Mirsad Sijaric, the museum’s director, defended the donation, asserting that "feigning neutrality is siding with evil." He stated that the move was not directed against Jewish people but was a protest against the situation in Gaza. Sijaric also claimed to have received numerous messages of support from Jewish people globally, emphasizing that the museum had "chosen one of the sides."

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Community Concerns and Global Reactions

However, the decision has been met with strong disapproval from prominent Jewish organizations. The Anti-Defamation League called it a "politicisation" of a symbol of "heritage, survival, and coexistence." Jakob Finci, president of Bosnia’s Jewish community, described the move as "bizarre" and "a bit offensive," warning that it could tarnish Sarajevo’s reputation and the legacy of the Haggadah as a symbol of shared life.

Historical Context of the Conflict

The conflict in Gaza was reignited by Hamas’s attack on Israel in October 2023. Israel’s subsequent military offensive has resulted in a significant number of Palestinian casualties, according to figures from the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry. The ongoing situation remains a highly sensitive and contentious global issue.

Sources

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Emre Emehet
Emre Emehet
Emre Emehet is a 45-year-old journalist from the Balkans, best known for his dedication to telling stories that reflect the everyday lives of people in his region. Growing up in a small town in northern Bosnia, Emre always had an interest in local history and storytelling, which drew him to pursue a degree in journalism and communications at the University of Sarajevo. He wasn’t the top of his class, but his professors admired his practical approach and natural curiosity, qualities that would later define his career.

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