Rabbi Asher Lopatin participated in a historic visit to Syria under a government invitation for Syrian Jews to reclaim their heritage. Organized by the Syrian Emergency Task Force, Lopatin’s journey exemplified hope for renewed Jewish-Muslim relations and the prospect of a tolerant future for minorities in Syria. Despite the national challenges, the warm reception from locals left a positive impression on the potential for peace and coexistence.
Rabbi Asher Lopatin reflects on a historic visit to Syria, initiated by an invitation from the Syrian government for Syrian Jews to return and reconnect with their heritage. This invitation, coordinated by the Syrian Emergency Task Force (SETF) and Dr. Yahya Basha, aims to enhance Jewish-Muslim relations. Rabbi Lopatin, accompanied by his colleague Daniel Bucksbaum, undertook the journey with hopes of fostering tolerance and protection for minority communities in Syria.
The delegation was led by Rabbi Yosef Hamra, a prominent figure in the Syrian Jewish community. Rabbi Lopatin traveled from Detroit to Damascus, navigating challenges such as unfavorable weather and bureaucratic hurdles. Despite historical tensions, the visit presented an opportunity for positive interactions with the local populace, showcasing a desire for change in the Syrian government’s approach towards Jews.
Rabbi Lopatin expressed a mix of cautious optimism regarding the new government. He underscored the importance of Israeli security while acknowledging the warm reception they received in Damascus from both government officials and ordinary citizens. The locals embraced their Jewish identity, illustrated by a conversation with a Syrian man who expressed pride in his heritage and eagerness to reconnect with Jewish history.
Upon arrival in Syria, Rabbi Lopatin and his group were welcomed at the airport and received their visas. Their first visit was to a Jewish cemetery, where the grave of the revered Kabbalist Rav Chayim Vital highlighted the enduring connections among Jews, Muslims, and their shared history in Syria. The condition of the cemetery underscored the dwindling Jewish presence, yet local guardians have preserved its sanctity over the years.
Rabbi Lopatin noted moments of warmth from strangers, exemplified by an encounter with workers near a damaged vehicle who humorously encouraged them to take it. The emotional resonance of returning to the Al-Frej synagogue, where the Hamra family had significant memories, further deepened their connection to the site despite its neglect since Henry Hamra’s bar mitzvah.
The visit also unearthed poignant reminders of destruction, such as the Jobar Synagogue, which represented the broader suffering inflicted by the regime. However, Rabbi Lopatin was encouraged by the fond memories shared by locals remembering Jews in their neighborhoods. Overall, the vibrant energy exuded by the children of Damascus left a hopeful impression, highlighting the potential for a future marked by tolerance and coexistence.
Rabbi Lopatin concluded that while the path ahead for Syria remains uncertain, his experiences underscore the possibility for a brighter future driven by unity, peace with Israel, and respect for diversity.
Rabbi Asher Lopatin’s visit to Syria symbolizes a hopeful step towards re-establishing Jewish connections with their heritage and fostering Jewish-Muslim relations. Through personal experiences, he illustrated the warmth and acceptance encountered in Damascus, highlighting the potential for a future built on tolerance and respect. Despite historical challenges, this visit leaves an optimistic outlook for Syria’s path toward peace and unity among its diverse communities.
Original Source: www.thejewishnews.com
