Jews in Dagestan, a predominantly Muslim region in southern Russia, are determined to regroup and rebuild after a deadly attack by Islamic militants targeted Christian and Jewish places of worship in Makhachkala and Derbent last weekend.
The attacks resulted in the deaths of 21 people, mostly police officers, and at least 43 others were injured in the North Caucasus region on the Caspian Sea.
Chief Rabbi of Russia Berel Lazar stated that a 110-year-old synagogue in Derbent, which was a central hub for Jewish life in the region, was destroyed in the attacks. Among the victims was Rev. Nikolai Kotelnikov, a 66-year-old Russian Orthodox priest killed during a Pentecost service at a church in Derbent.
The Jewish community in Dagestan is determined not to be intimidated by extremists and plans to practice their religion openly. They believe they can rebuild and grow stronger with the government’s support.
In a separate incident, mobs rioted at the Makhachkala airport after a flight arrived from Tel Aviv during the conflict between Israel and Hamas in October. Over 20 people were injured in the violent incident.
Dagestan, home to about 3 million people from diverse ethnic backgrounds, has a strong Jewish presence with deep-rooted traditions. Despite facing challenges, the Jewish community remains connected to their homeland and is resilient in the face of adversity.
The language of Dagestani Jews, known as Juhuri, is a unique dialect with Hebrew and Aramaic influences. The preservation of this language has helped maintain Jewish heritage and identity among Caucasus Jews.
Despite historical tensions, Jews and Muslims in Dagestan have generally maintained friendly relations, with a shared understanding of each other’s religious practices and cultural traditions.
Rabbi Lazar believes that the majority of Muslims in Dagestan support the Jewish community and condemn the violent attacks. He remains hopeful that the state will provide protection for all residents, including the Jewish population.
Associated Press religion coverage is made possible through collaboration with The Conversation US, funded by Lilly Endowment Inc.
