Reflections on gratitude, heritage, and the giants who shaped our community

LIVING LEGACY: CARRYING FEZ INTO THE FUTURE

How one man’s journey reminds us what it means to build home, history, and hope

A Life That Spanned Continents and Centuries

Attending the memorial service of Sam Bensimmon, who journeyed from Fez, Morocco to Maryland in 1967, felt less like recalling a past life and more like standing in the presence of a living legend. At 102, Sam’s story stretched across continents, empires, and eras. His lifetime encompassed the creation of the State of Israel, the transformation of Jewish life across the world, and the courage of those who carried tradition across oceans.

Listening to his children and grandchildren, I realized they were not simply sharing memories. They were reliving a legacy; a tapestry woven from faith, humility, humor, and the quiet dignity of a man who lived through history and helped shape the community we now call home.

Crossing Borders, Carrying Torah

Sam’s journey echoed the ancient call of Lech Lecha: “Go forth from your land… to the place that I will show you” (Genesis 12:1). Like Abraham, he stepped into the unknown with faith as his compass. He left behind the familiar rhythms of Fez, the narrow alleys, the “melodies of the mellah”, and the warmth of a tight‑knit Jewish world. He was not alone. Jews from Fez, Casablanca, Marrakesh, Meknes, Tétouan (Little Jerusalem) and beyond made similar journeys. Some arrived to ready‑made communities.

Others re‑created Morocco in pockets of America, stitching their heritage into the fabric of this country. They brought their piyutim, their recipes, their blessings, their humility, and their........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)