Bilal Abu Khalaf, the fabric merchant of Jerusalem
In this week’s Peoples of Israel, a new series featuring the mosaic of personalities walking the Land, we meet a man whose warmth helps 3 religious groups find their common thread
Bilal Abu Khalaf, a third-generation fabric merchant in Jerusalem's Old City, operates a shop that serves as a unique cultural and interfaith hub. His store, located in the Muristan market near the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, sells textiles to diverse clientele including Haredi Jews, Christian clergy, and Muslim families, reflecting Jerusalem's complex religious landscape. Abu Khalaf aims for his shop "to connect the three religions" and "make peace in my store," fostering conversations between rabbis, priests, and imams.
- The shop's history is deeply rooted in Jerusalem, with Abu Khalaf's family tracing back to Saladin's Kurdish soldiers.
- During renovations, Abu Khalaf uncovered and preserved the remains of the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore beneath his shop, installing a glass panel for visitors to view the ruins.
- Despite economic challenges due to reduced tourism since the pandemic and recent conflicts, Abu Khalaf emphasizes the importance of visitors, stating, "We need the people to come. We love visitors."
- He views the exchange of ideas and conversations about religion, politics, and daily life among his diverse customers as the true purpose of his shop, noting, "Many times I mix here Christian with the Jewish. And still now they are friends."
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