Syria's dwindling Jewish community can visit one of the world's oldest synagogues again

In Jobar, a suburb of Damascus, the nine remaining Jews in Syria can once again visit the historic Jobar Synagogue, also known as the Eliyahu Hanavi Synagogue.

This ancient place of worship, originally built 720 years before Christ, suffered partial destruction during Syria's 13-year civil war, with collapsed walls and roofs, and missing artifacts.

The recent overthrow of President Bashar Assad in early December has improved security, allowing access to Jobar. Bakhour Chamntoub, the 74-year-old head of the Jewish community in Syria, visited the synagogue for the first time in 15 years and was disturbed by the damage.

Despite offers from Jews worldwide to help rebuild, Chamntoub has remained in Syria throughout the war. The Jewish community in Syria, once numbering around 100,000, has dwindled to just nine members, mostly elderly. Many emigrated following the creation of Israel in 1948.

The community now struggles with essentials like obtaining kosher food, and its future in Syria appears uncertain. Chamntoub, who makes a living as a landlord, continues to observe Jewish traditions and hopes for more freedoms in the future.

Read Original Article: AP News

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