The Bukharan Jews are a unique Jewish community that developed in Central Asia. Their history in Uzbekistan stretches back more than 2,000 years, closely tied to Samarkand and Bukhara. Today, their culture lives on both in Uzbekistan and across global diasporas.
History of Jews in Uzbekistan
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Jewish presence in Central Asia dates back to the Persian Empire.
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The Silk Road boosted settlement and trade opportunities.
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Samarkand, Bukhara, and Tashkent were the main centers of Bukharan Jewish life.
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In the 19th–20th centuries, they contributed to trade, crafts, medicine, and culture.
Culture of Bukharan Jews
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Language: Bukhori, a Judeo-Persian dialect with Hebrew and Uzbek elements.
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Religion: Judaism, with ancient rituals and preserved traditions.
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Cuisine: plov with raisins, sambusa, chala-p, blending Jewish and Uzbek flavors.
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Clothing: traditional robes and embroidered skullcaps.
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Architecture: synagogues of Bukhara and Samarkand remain cultural landmarks.
Bukharan Jewish Diaspora Today
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A small community remains in Uzbekistan, mainly in Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara.
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Large diasporas thrive in Israel, the USA (New York, Queens, Brooklyn), Russia, and Canada.
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Despite migration, they preserve their language, music, food, and traditions.
Contribution to Uzbekistan’s Culture
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Influenced crafts, trade, and science.
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Enriched music and dance traditions of the region.
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Synagogues in Bukhara and Samarkand are vital symbols of religions in Uzbekistan.
FAQ
1) Who are the Bukharan Jews?
A Jewish ethnic group that developed in Central Asia over 2,000 years ago.
2) Where did they historically live?
In Bukhara, Samarkand, Tashkent, and Khiva.
3) Where do they live today?
Large communities in Israel, the USA, Russia, Canada; smaller ones remain in Uzbekistan.
4) What language did they speak?
Bukhori (a Judeo-Persian dialect).
5) Are there synagogues in Uzbekistan?
Yes, active synagogues exist in Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara.