New Rabbinical Union Established in Jerusalem to Preserve Kurdish Jewish Heritage

Dozens of rabbis, yeshiva deans, and rabbinical judges convened in Jerusalem to establish the Union of Sages of Kurdistan. The new organization, founded at the "Keter Torah - Khuja" synagogue in the Katamon neighborhood, aims to preserve, research, and pass down the religious heritage of the Kurdish Jewish community to future generations. Its activities will include publishing the writings of community sages, deepening the study of their legal rulings, documenting prayer and piyyut traditions, and writing religious texts focused on community customs.

The union also plans to organize religious activities for community members across Israel. Former Minister of Religious Affairs Michael Malchieli, who attended the founding gathering, emphasized the importance of connecting with one's roots and the parental responsibility to transmit heritage. "He who spares his rod hates his son," Malchieli quoted, explaining that this refers to a parent who does not teach their child their heritage and community.

Rabbi Ben-Or Wadaoker, the union's secretary, highlighted the unique identity of Kurdish Jewry, characterized by its deep roots, inclusivity, nationalism, Zionism, and religiosity. He stated that returning to roots is a guiding principle for the entire community and the Jewish people, urging them to learn from their ancestors' path, which combined Torah study with practical life.

The Union of Sages of Kurdistan views its founding as the beginning of a long-term initiative to revive the religious legacy of Kurdish Jewry, intending to make the halachic, spiritual, and traditional treasures of its sages accessible to the general public and future generations.