Enduring Jewish Communities around the World

Reviews / Votes

Professor Azriel's investigation into nine disparate Jewish communities around the globe is enlightening. None are alike apart from being small, isolated, and Jewish. Each reflects the culture of which they are a part and their unique interpretation of the purpose of a Jewish community. All of them have remained vibrant against all odds. Offering a fascinating glimpse into the history, religion, and challenges they face, Azriel's research sheds light on these communities and the people who have sustained them. This study should interest not just readers who are interested in the diversity of Judaism but also in people intrigued by how small minorities have been able to sustain themselves in the midst of serious threats. -- Glenn Sharfman, Oglethorpe University In taking a close look at nine very different Jewish communities around the world, Joshua Azriel not only draws useful comparisons about their methods of organization and communication, but also offers readers a very rich glimpse into what makes each one special. Beyond the field of communication, his book's qualitative details and historic context will draw in anyone interested in Jewish peoplehood and its ability to endure throughout the millennia. -- Wendy Kalman, Center for Israel Education In this intriguing book, Dr. Josh Azriel explains in a straightforward manner the theoretical framework for endurance that helped these small and far-flung communities persevere over the centuries. This includes numerous fascinating insights about communities ranging from Ghana, Guatemala, India, Bulgaria, Romania, and beyond. This work is a must read for anyone interested in the survival of minority cultures within a larger society. It is an astounding story to realize that these communities found such value in their faith that they were prepared to make all sorts of sacrifices to help maintain their beliefs. Against all odds, they survived, and thrived. Modern miracles! -- Rabbi Albert I. Slomovitz, PhD A fresh perspective on Judaism in diaspora, Joshua Azriel's Enduring Jewish Communities Around the World introduces readers to the Shavei Yisrael communities of the twenty-first century. Eclipsed by academic interests in historical European Judaism and the politics surrounding a modern Israel, the endurance of these small, global communities often goes unmentioned, if not completely forgotten. Azriel deftly demonstrates the importance of communication through tradition, L'Dov V'Dor (generational learning), and communal organization to the continued existence and growth of these lesser-known Jewish communities in an easily accessible and engaging narrative style. -- Stephen Bartlett, Kennesaw State University