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History
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Hebron's Ancient Promise: The Centuries-Old Hospice That Feeds Everyone
Near the Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron, Al-Takiya Al-Ibrahimiya has served free meals since 1279 CE. This charitable hospice, rooted in the tradition of Abraham's hospitality, operates year-round on donations, ensuring Hebron lives up to its name as 'the city where no one sleeps hungry.'
An Unbroken Chain of Charity
In the heart of the ancient city of Hebron, near the historic Ibrahimi Mosque, stands a testament to unwavering human compassion: Al-Takiya Al-Ibrahimiya, or The Abrahamic Hospice. For nearly 750 years, this institution has upheld a simple, profound promise. It has helped earn Hebron the venerable title of “the city where no one sleeps hungry.”
Formally established in 1279 CE by the Mamluk Sultan Qalawun, the hospice carries on a tradition believed to be far older, rooted in the generosity of the prophet Abraham himself, for whom the city is named (Al-Khalil in Arabic, meaning "The Friend of God"). Legend holds that Abraham made a promise to God to feed the poor in this area, and for centuries, Al-Takiya has been the living embodiment of that vow.
The Daily Miracle of a Meal
Every single day, the large cauldrons at the hospice are fired up to prepare a simple but nourishing meal, most famously the “Jarishah,” a cracked wheat soup cooked with meat. Hundreds of families, travelers, and individuals in need line up to receive hot food, no questions asked. While the daily service feeds around 500 families, this number swells dramatically during the month of Ramadan, when up to 3,000 people a day are served.
The hospice's mission is one of pure, unconditional charity. It serves anyone who comes to its doors, regardless of their faith, background, or circumstances. The director of the hospice, Hazem al-Mujahid, articulated this principle perfectly:
We give food to anyone who asks... We never ask people about their religion or their background.
Sustained by Centuries of Generosity
How has such an operation survived for over seven centuries, through shifting empires, conflicts, and economic hardships? The answer lies in the Islamic tradition of the *waqf*, or charitable endowment. The hospice was originally funded by an endowment established by Tamim al-Dari, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad, who was granted the lands of Hebron. This historical foundation, supplemented by continuous donations from the community and abroad, has ensured the cauldrons never go cold.
This resilience makes Al-Takiya more than just a soup kitchen; it is a pillar of Hebron's cultural and social identity. It represents stability and hope in a region that has seen immense turmoil, a constant reminder of a shared heritage of compassion that transcends politics and time.
A Living Legacy
In a world of constant change, the quiet, persistent work of Al-Takiya Al-Ibrahimiya is a powerful story. It is a living legacy of hospitality, a daily miracle sustained by centuries of faith and generosity. It is the reason that in Hebron, an ancient promise made by a prophet is still kept, ensuring that no one has to face the night with an empty stomach.