“House of Life” is what Beth Haim translates to. Here at the Joodse Begraafplaats, we stand before the oldest Jewish cemetery in the Netherlands. It is located in Ouderkerk aan de Amstel near Amsterdam.
The Joodse Begraafplaats has a rich history. Spanish and Portuguese Jews fleeing the Inquisition established it in the late 16th century. Initially, they buried their dead in the dunes near Alkmaar. In 1614, they formally bought land in Ouderkerk aan de Amstel. This marked the first formal recognition of the Sephardic Jewish community in Amsterdam. Amsterdam required the dead to be transported by ship.
At the landing stage on the Amstel stands the metaarhuis. It is also called the Rodeamentoshuis or House of Ommegang from 1705. Here, the deceased are brought inside. Men walk around the coffin seven times if the deceased is male. Priests called Cohaniem could not come into contact with the dead. They had a separate room in the metaarhuis. They even had special paths in the cemetery.
The Joodse Begraafplaats is world-renowned for its tombstones. Inscriptions appear in Portuguese, Dutch, and Hebrew. Unusually for a Jewish cemetery, many tombstones feature elaborate carvings. These carvings sometimes include human figures.
Many famous Amsterdam Portuguese Jews rest here. Rabbi Menasseh ben Israel rests here. His story is told in Robert Menasse’s novel. Don Samuel Palache, the Moroccan king’s envoy, is also buried here. The parents of philosopher Baruch Spinoza are here. Also, Dr. Samuel Sarphati rests here. He initiated the construction of Het Paleis van Volksvlijt and the Amstel Hotel.
Jacob van Ruisdael created two paintings inspired by Beth Haim. The paintings are called “The Jewish Cemetery at Ouderkerk.” However, they do not closely resemble the actual location. Ruisdael added picturesque elements freely.
Other famous people buried at the Joodse Begraafplaats include Joseph Pallache, Joseph Pardo, and Eliahu Montalto. Maup Caransa, a real estate developer, is also buried here.
The Joodse Begraafplaats stands as a testament. It reflects the enduring legacy of Amsterdam’s Portuguese Jewish community. Beth Haim is free and open to visitors. Take a moment to appreciate the history and artistry around you. Remember those who shaped Amsterdam’s cultural heritage.