The study focuses on the initial establishment and subsequent development of Jewish life in Belgium in the 18th and 19th centuries. In addition reasons for German Jewish families to migrate and to settle permanently and for the first time in Belgium, thereby creating a nucleus of jewish life, are illustrated. It is explained why pioneers like Oppenheim, Benda, Schuster, Hauman, Morel, Bischofsheim and Deby left their homes (in Germany) and moved to unknown Belgian terretories. The engagement of these pioneers within the Jewish communities as well as their economic, political and social activities are highlighted.