December 3, 2003
Protocols of the Elders of Zion displayed as "Jewish holy book"
In the new manuscript museum in the library at Alexandria, no less, recently opened with UNESCO money. MEMRI cites the director's explanation here:
"When my eyes fell upon the rare copy of this dangerous book, I decided immediately to place it next to the Torah. Although it is not a monotheistic holy book, it has become one of the sacred [tenets] of the Jews, next to their first constitution, their religious law, [and] their way of life. In other words, it is not merely an ideological or theoretical book.The good director then goes on to show his qualifications as a Holocaust-denier. Read it and weep."Perhaps this book of the 'Protocols of the Elders of Zion' is more important to the Zionist Jews of the world than the Torah, because they conduct Zionist life according to it… It is only natural to place the book in the framework of an exhibit of Torah [scrolls]."
NOTE: Some background on the infamous Protocols here, here, and here. Appallingly enough, a basic Google search turns up numerous sites that present the Protocols as fact.
UPDATE: The Protocols have been removed from the display. UNESCO's director general, Koichiro Matsuura, helped put pressure on the library. I don't know much about Matsuura, but I did take note of his response to the initial reports of the looting of the Baghdad archeological museum, which stood out for its careful and diplomatic tone. A man, it appears, attentive enough to say what must be said, wise enough not to say more than need be said.
Posted by David on December 3, 2003 9:51 PM
"This is knowledge that has reached the world via a diverse stream of information from journalists' reports, historical research, compensation, [the] unceasing buzz in the media, and films such as Schindler's List which made the entire world cry and which was banned in our country [Egypt] so that we won't cry too over the fate of the poor Jews!"
Don't confuse me with facts, my mind is made up.
Posted by: John Anderson on December 4, 2003 8:32 AM
Public Statement by Dr. Ismail Serageldin
Alexandria, 4 December—The following statement is attributable to the Director of the Library of Alexandria, Dr. Ismail Serageldin:
“Recent press reports concerning the presence of the first Arabic translation of the Protocols of the Elders of Zion in an exhibition in the Bibliotheca Alexandrina deserve a prompt and clear reply. Preliminary investigation determined that the book was briefly displayed in a showcase devoted to rotating samples of curiosities and unusual items in our collection. The book was never displayed alongside the Jewish Torah nor has it ever been stated that it is a holy book or the basis for a Jewish constitution. The book is a well-known 19th century fabrication to foment anti-Jewish feelings.
“The book was promptly withdrawn from public display, but its very inclusion showed bad judgment and insensitivity, and an internal administrative hearing is underway to determine whether further action is to be taken.
“The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is profoundly committed to its role as a center of learning and a place promoting tolerance, dialogue and understanding between peoples, cultures and civilizations. We are honored to work with distinguished international partners in promoting these universal ideals”.
Posted by: Sherif Elaish on December 11, 2003 3:40 AM
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