The Rich History of Persian-Speaking Jews (2/3-Part Series)
**From the Caucasus to Central Asia: The Rich History of Jews of the Persian-
Speaking World**
What is the connection between Iranian, Bukharian, Afghan, and Kavkazi Jews?
How did Jewish communities emerge in regions east of the Land of Israel? Ahead
of Purim, join us as we delve into the deeply rooted history and multifaceted
culture of Jews of Persian lands—including Iran, Central Asia, and the
Caucasus. Embarking on a journey that spans 2700 years, this timely course
will explore some of the oldest Jewish communities of the Diaspora and their
importance in broader Jewish history.
About the speaker:
Born in Uzbekistan, Ruben Shimonov is an educator, community builder, and
artist passionate about Jewish diversity and intercultural understanding. He
is the American Sephardi Federation’s National Director of Education &
Sephardi House—an innovative initiative that works to enrich Jewish campus
life and young leadership with the vibrancy, richness, and wisdom of the
Sephardic and Mizrahi world. As a visual artist, Ruben uses his multilingual
Hebrew-Arabic-Persian calligraphy to build interfaith bridges and celebrate
the diversity of the Greater Sephardi world. His art has been featured in
international publications and exhibits, including at the U.S. Embassy in
Uzbekistan. Ruben has brought his multilingual calligraphy workshops, as well
as his lectures on Sephardic and Mizrahi Jewish histories, to conferences,
universities, and museums around the world. He recently concluded an Artist
Residency and Visiting Lectureship at the Tuohy Center for Interreligious
Understanding at John Carroll University.
Dates and time:
Saturday evenings (Moṣa’e Shabbat) @ 8pm
February 7 – Iranian Jews
February 14 – Bukharian & Afghan Jews
February 21 – Kavkazi (Mountain) Jews
(Refreshments will be served)
Free Admission
Sponsorships available and donations welcome
RSVP: [ketertorahwb@gmail.com](https://mailto:ketertorahwb@gmail.com) or text
248-681-3665
Organized by: Keter Torah
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/14425
