Text Panel
The exilarch was the leader of the Babylonian Jewish community –
a unique title in the annals of the Jewish people.
Based on the belief that the dynasty of exilarchs could trace their lineage to the House of David,
the title was passed down from father to son.
The exilarch represented the community in their contacts with the authorities,
which recognized his widespread powers.
The exilarch was also entrusted with the management of the Jews’ internal affairs.
he had tremendous power,
which at times led to friction with other centers of power in the community and, in particular,
with the Geonim – the heads of the yeshivas.
