Syria boasts a deep and varied history influenced by many religious and ethnic groups. The Jewish people in Syria significantly contributed to the country’s cultural, economic, and social landscape for many centuries. Nevertheless, the once-thriving Jewish population has nearly vanished due to political shifts and regional disputes. Currently, the tale of the last Jewish man in Damascus represents the story of this community. As of 2025, there are approximately seven remaining Jews in Damascus.

Jewish History in Syria

The Jewish community in Syria has existed for more than 2,000 years, with some sources tracing its origins to the era of King David and the Babylonian exile. The Jewish population thrived in cities such as Damascus, Aleppo, and Qamishli, playing a significant role in trade, education, and religious discourse.

Syrian Jews established communities in various cities, such as Damascus, Aleppo, Latakia, Baniyas, Daraa, Qamishli, and Nusaybin.
The Jewish neighborhoods in Damascus and Aleppo were famous for their synagogues, educational institutions, and vibrant markets. The Jobar Synagogue in Damascus, thought to have been constructed more than 2,000 years ago, was one of the oldest synagogues globally before suffering significant damage during the Syrian conflict.

The Decline of Jews in Syria

During the 20th century, growing nationalism and local disputes caused a notable decrease in the Jewish community in Syria. Following 1947, many Jewish individuals migrated to the United States and Latin America. By the 1990s, only a few hundred Jews still resided in Syria.
Almost all of Syria’s Jews left in two years, starting in 1992. Now, members of the country’s dwindling Jewish community say only seven individuals are left.

Jewish Heritage in Syria

Damascus houses the Eliyahu Hanabi Synagogue in Jobar, which is the oldest synagogue globally, alongside 22 additional synagogues. Aleppo used to have approximately 15 synagogues. The earliest Torah scrolls, crafted on deerskin, were discovered in Jobar, Tadif, and Al-Qaryatayn.
The synagogue closed in the 1990s, after almost the entire Syrian Jewish population of more than 30,000 left.

The Power of Ten: Why Jewish Prayer Services Depend on Community

Currently, the synagogue remains closed. By Jewish tradition, a minyan, which consists of ten adult Jewish men, is necessary for prayer services to be held.
However, this number is no longer available in Syria, preventing the synagogue from opening for worship.

The Last Jewish Man in Damascus

Located close to the Azem Palace in the center of Damascus, there is a famous antique store run by one of the few remaining Jewish inhabitants of the city.
a 74-year-old man who is among the last remaining Jews in Damascus. Despite the dwindling Jewish community in Syria, this man has chosen to stay in his homeland, maintaining the traditions and heritage of his ancestors. His perseverance and commitment provide a touching insight into the lasting spirit of Syria’s Jewish history.
This shop is a rich history repository, showcasing rare artifacts, Damascene mosaics, and craftsmanship spanning centuries. If you find yourself in Damascus, visiting this iconic shop is essential; it offers more than just antiques; it’s an opportunity to engage with a vibrant aspect of Syria’s diverse cultural heritage.

The Jewish community in Syria, once an integral part of the nation’s history, has almost completely
vanished.
Most importantly, Jewish heritage remains an integral part of Syria’s history

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