Rabbi Asher Lopatin participated in a historic visit to Syria after the government invited Syrian Jews to return. Organized by the Syrian Emergency Task Force, the trip aimed to strengthen Jewish-Muslim relations. Rabbi Lopatin noted the warm hospitality received from Syrian citizens, highlighted the beauty of shared cultural heritage, and expressed hope for Syria’s peaceful future amidst ongoing challenges.
Rabbi Asher Lopatin recently participated in a landmark visit to Syria following an invitation from the Syrian government for Syrian Jews to return. This initiative was organized by the Syrian Emergency Task Force, supported by Dr. Yahya Basha, a Syrian Muslim advocate for Jewish-Muslim relations. Rabbi Lopatin sought his wife’s approval before accepting the offer, emphasizing the importance of minority rights in Syria’s evolving political landscape. His colleague, Daniel Bucksbaum, accompanied him, further adding to the Jewish representation on this mission.
The visiting group was led by Rabbi Yosef Hamra from the Syrian Jewish community in New York, who had left Syria in 1992. Rabbi Lopatin and his colleague traveled from Detroit to Damascus, braving several challenges, including heavy winter weather and bureaucratic hurdles at the airport. Despite Syria’s historical tensions with Israel, Rabbi Lopatin noted the warm reception he received from both the Syrian government and citizens, highlighting moments of kindness and hospitality.
During the journey, Rabbi Lopatin shared experiences that showcased the genuine interest of the Syrian people. He recounted an encounter on the flight, where initially trying to conceal their Jewish identity turned into an open acknowledgment when he requested a kosher meal. Upon arrival, the group received a friendly welcome from local Syrians, some of whom expressed pride in their heritage and took photos with Rabbi Lopatin.
Visiting significant sites, such as the Jewish cemetery and the Al-Frej synagogue, the rabbi reflected on the reverence surrounding these places despite the diminishing Jewish population. The preservation of sacred sites has been supported by both Jewish and Muslim guardians, maintaining a shared respect for the Jewish history in Syria. Rabbi Lopatin’s emotional experience, particularly in the synagogue where Henry Hamra celebrated his bar mitzvah, underscored the deep connections between the Jewish and Syrian communities.
During their stay, Rabbi Lopatin observed the resilience and spirit of the Syrian people, especially children, who imparted a sense of hope and joy. He noted the destructive legacy left by the Assad regime while also acknowledging the affectionate memories that locals have of the Jewish community. Despite the current uncertainties regarding Syria’s future, Rabbi Lopatin expressed optimism for peace, tolerance, and a unified country. He concluded his reflections, aspiring for a prosperous future in Syria.
Rabbi Asher Lopatin’s visit to Syria represents a significant moment for Jewish-Syrian relations as the nation navigates its complex history. His experiences reflect a blend of hope and nostalgia, highlighting both the cultural heritage of Jews in Syria and the warm reception from the local populace. As the region’s future remains uncertain, the rabbi’s reflections emphasize a desire for peace, tolerance, and unity among diverse groups within the country.
Original Source: www.thejewishnews.com
