Reflections | China’s Kaifeng Jews: history of ‘the religion that pulls out the sinews’ in Henan province and how some today want to learn about their forgotten heritage
- The exact date of the Jews’ arrival in China has yet to be determined, but one stele commemorates the construction of a synagogue in 1163
- By the time Western Christian missionaries in China learned about their descendants, the Kaifeng Jews had thoroughly assimilated into mainstream Chinese culture
It’s my first time in New York City, and every day I’m enthralled by the sights, sounds and flavours of this metropolis.
I know I’m only a tourist, and I do not – and choose not to – see the less savoury parts of New York, of which there are many. But even haters cannot deny the sheer energy and diversity of the city.
New York is one of the most ethnically diverse cities, not just in the United States, but in the world. Of the many American- and foreign-born nationalities living in the city, the Jewish community is perhaps one of the groups most closely identified with New York.
Growing up, one of my favourite writers was Isaac Bashevis Singer, who set many of his stories in the city, and I still re-watch the earlier movies of Woody Allen like Annie Hall (1977) and Manhattan (1979).
The Jewish side of New York is one aspect of the city that I’ve long wanted to experience, even for a little bit in the nine days we’re here.
