Who Are the Jews of Iran?

In a country often seen as hostile to Jews, Iran’s Jewish community remains one of the oldest in the Middle East. Nearly 10,000 Jews continue to practice their faith, operating synagogues, kosher restaurants, and schools, even under the watchful eye of the regime. Rooted in ancient Persia and shaped by Queen Esther’s legacy, their story is one of resilience –maintaining traditions that have withstood exile, persecution, and revolution.

Essential Questions

1. What factors helped to shape the cultural identity of Persian Jews?
2. Why are Persian Jews referred to as Esther’s children?

Big Ideas

1. Persian Jewish culture contains influences from thousands of years of history.
2. The biblical Esther demonstrated bravely, resilience, and loyalty – traits that characterize modern Persian Jews as well.