Rabbi Asher Lopatin traveled to Syria as part of a historic visit facilitated by the Syrian government’s invitation for Jews to reconnect with their heritage. He highlighted the support from Dr. Yahya Basha and the positive interactions experienced during the trip, which included engagements with locals and visits to significant Jewish sites. Rabbi Lopatin expressed cautious optimism for Syria’s future, emphasizing the need for tolerance and better relations with surrounding nations.
Rabbi Asher Lopatin reflects on his recent visit to Syria, a historic event facilitated by an invitation from the Syrian government encouraging the return of Syrian Jews. This initiative was coordinated by the Syrian Emergency Task Force (SETF), associated with Dr. Yahya Basha, a prominent advocate for Jewish-Muslim relations. Rabbi Lopatin, along with colleague Daniel Bucksbaum, joined a group led by Rabbi Yosef Hamra to foster interfaith dialogue and promote tolerance within the new Syrian government.
Traveling from Detroit to Damascus, the group faced several challenges, including winter weather and travel logistics. Despite the historical tension between Syria and Israel, Rabbi Lopatin and his companion were met with warmth and kindness from both governmental officials and ordinary Syrians. They experienced a profound sense of connection, particularly when engaging with locals who recognized ties to the Jewish community.
On arrival, Rabbi Lopatin experienced an overwhelming sense of joy standing on Syrian soil. The visit included a tour of the Jewish cemetery, where the resting place of the revered Kabbalist Rav Chayim Vital was a poignant reminder of Syria’s rich Jewish heritage. Despite societal changes, the cemetery remains respected and maintained, embodying a significant aspect of the Jewish legacy in Syria.
Throughout their stay, Rabbi Lopatin and his group encountered a spirit of humor and kindness among the Syrian people. An anecdote involving a broken-down Jeep illustrated the openness and friendliness of strangers encountered during their explorations. Engaging in traditional Jewish prayers at the Al-Frej synagogue stirred emotional ties to past generations, highlighting the potential for rekindling community ties.
The contrast between historical symbols of destruction, such as the Jobar Synagogue, and the amiable attitudes of current residents provided a compelling narrative. Syrians reminisced about positive interactions with the Jewish community, imparting a sense of hope for a future characterized by peace and understanding. Rabbi Lopatin notes the vital role of Syria’s children and the hope they represent for bridging cultural divides.
The overarching sentiment of Rabbi Lopatin’s account is one of cautious optimism for Syria’s future, advocating for religious tolerance and peace with neighboring nations. He concludes that although the path ahead is uncertain, this journey offered a glimmer of hope for a better tomorrow in Syria.
Rabbi Asher Lopatin’s visit to Syria represents a significant effort to promote Jewish heritage and foster interfaith dialogue in a historically complex region. The Syrian government’s invitation signals a potential shift towards inclusiveness for minority communities. Through his reflections, Rabbi Lopatin expresses hope for a future rooted in tolerance and respect, urging continued efforts toward peace and better relations with Israel and the international community. This trip not only acknowledges the rich Jewish legacy in Syria but also reinforces the importance of building bridges across divides in a troubled region.
Original Source: www.thejewishnews.com
