Clarifying what the word Semitic means

July 28, 2025

Robert, Palestinians are generally considered Semitic peoples. The term “Semitic” refers to a language family and a cultural group that includes various ancient and modern populations, including those who speak Arabic, Hebrew, and Aramaic. Palestinians primarily speak Arabic, which is a Semitic language, and their lineage is traced back to the region of the Levant, where many Semitic peoples have historically resided.

While the term “Semitic” is primarily linguistic and cultural, it has also been used in racial and ethnic contexts. In this broader sense, Palestinians are also considered Semitic due to their historical and cultural connections to the region and their shared linguistic heritage with other Semitic peoples.

It’s important to note that the concept of “race” is a social construct and not a biological reality. The term “Semitic” can be understood in different ways, but in the context of Palestinians, it generally refers to their linguistic and cultural background rather than a specific racial identity. It continues to be used wrongly being defined as anti-Jewish sentiment. It’s the exact opposite.