The Rich History of Persian-Speaking Jews (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.
Saturday evenings (Moṣa’e Shabbat) @ 8pm
February 7 – Iranian Jews
February 14 – Bukharian & Afghan Jews
February 21 – Kavkazi (Mountain) Jews
(Refreshments will be served)
RSVP: ketertorahwb@gmail.com or text 248-681-3665
