O' Babylon O' Babylon (C)

*O BABYLON — SON OF BABYLON* AJL is proud to introduce the world to the remarkable heritage of the Babylonian Jews. They did not journey to Babylon by choice. They were carried there from ancient Judah as captives following the conquests of Nebuchadnezzar II. Yet through tremendous talent, scholarship, sincerity, and hard work, they contributed greatly to the life and culture of Babylon. Tradition remembers Nebuchadnezzar’s magnificent Hanging Gardens—created, it is said, to comfort his homesick wife, who longed for the green mountains of her homeland. Although the Gardens’ exact history remains debated, Jewish captives and craftsmen were among the many peoples whose labor and abilities helped sustain the Babylonian Empire. In Babylon, Jewish scholars and learned men served in positions of responsibility, while generations of teachers established centers devoted to Torah, morality, learning, and justice. From this community eventually emerged the monumental Babylonian Talmud—one of the greatest works of Jewish thought. For more than 2,500 years, the Babylonian Jews preserved their faith, customs, music, language, and devotion. The teachings of the Torah remained etched in their hearts: *“Love your neighbor as yourself.”* Centuries later, hatred spread through Iraq following the birth of the modern State of Israel. An ancient Jewish community was uprooted from the land it had helped enrich for generations. Many finally found freedom and refuge in Israel—the ancestral homeland of the Jewish people—while others carried the spirit of Babylon throughout the world. This song is their remembrance, their pride, and their living voice. *Lyrics, personal history, and creative vision: Joseph Ezra — Son of Babylon* *Creative development and editorial collaboration: Amara* *Music production: AJL* *An AJL Production* *AJL — A New Wave of Songs* Your Words. Your Language. Your Song.