On February 14^th, the Samaritan Legend Society in Nablus in cooperation with the Public Relations Department at the University organized a lecture titled “The Samaritan Sect, its History, Customs and Traditions” at Martyr Zafer Al-Masri Auditoriums at the Old Campus.

Keynote speaker was Mr. Ya’qub Al-Sameri, Head of the Samaritan Legend Society. Attendees included Dr. Mohamad Hanoon, University Vice President for Community Affairs, as well as a number of Samaritan students, other students and faculty staff.

Dr. Hanoon gave a speech in which he stressed the status that the Samaritans enjoy in Palestine and the important role they play in the Palestinian society. He also described the activities related to the Samaritans including workshops, seminars, as well as art and science exhibitions that are constantly held at the University about issues related to this group of people.

Furthermore, Dr. Hanoon spoke about the history of the Samaritans in Nablus and addressed the importance of educating the public about the traditions and customs of this group of people.

Mr. Ya’qub on his part spoke about the Samaritan Sabbath and explained some of the ideas and beliefs that are related to the Samaritans. He also said that the Samaritans have made substantial achievements having almost 70% of Samaritans possess university degrees in various academic fields.

The lecture also featured a documentary film that described the Samaritans’ way of life, traditions and rituals, as well as their celebrations and religious values.