[f. Heb. q’rāīm scripturalists (f. qārā to read) + -ITE1.] A member of a Jewish sect (founded in the eighth cent. A.D.), which rejects rabbinical tradition and bases its tenets on a literal interpretation of the scriptures. They are found chiefly in the Crimea, and the adjacent parts of Russia and Turkey.
1727–41. Chambers, Cycl., s.v. Caraite, The Caraites themselves pretend to be the remains of the ten tribes led captive by Salmanassar.
1839. E. D. Clarke, Trav. Russia, etc. 97/1. The Karaïtes deem it an act of piety to copy the Bible.
1893. Daily News, 3 March, 5/4. There are at present but few Karaites, who all live in the Crimea, speak the Tartar tongue, and dress after the Tartar fashion, so that they are not easily recognised for Jews.
attrib. 1900. Expositor, Sept., 238. The British Museum contains a considerable number of Karaite MSS.
Hence Karaitism = KARAISM.
1727–41. Chambers, Cycl., s.v. Caraite, A contrary party, continuing to keep close to the letter, founded Caraitism.
