What’s new:
While many heroes emerged from the movement to liberate Soviet Jewry, Rabbi Jonathan Porath stands out as a significant, yet often overlooked figure. His continuous dedication helped many Soviet Jews regain their identity and faith, against the backdrop of oppressive Soviet policies.
Why it matters:
Rabbi Porath’s work is a testament to the enduring spirit of Jewish identity and the relentless fight for freedom during an era when practicing Judaism in the Soviet Union was fraught with danger. His efforts to reconnect Jews with their heritage in a totalitarian regime and his role in integrating Soviet immigrants into Israeli society are monumental chapters in Jewish history.
By the numbers:
In 1948, Golda Meir was shocked to see 50,000 Jews expressing solidarity in Moscow on the Jewish High Holidays. Decades later, amidst the suppression of Judaism, Rabbi Jonathan Porath would emerge as one of the leaders who helped reignite Jewish identity in the Soviet Union, culminating in the great Russian aliyah, with one million immigrants moving to Israel.
The big picture:
The Soviet Jewish struggle for liberation and identity did not occur in a vacuum. Rabbi Porath’s journey mirrors the broader convergence of Soviet Jews rediscovering their roots, a journey championed by figures such as Elie Wiesel and supported by international advocates from organizations like United Synagogue Youth (USY).
Between the lines:
Porath’s commitment went beyond mere advocacy; he engaged directly with Soviet Jews, curated exchanges, and upon emigrating to Israel, he helped facilitate the integration of immigrants into Israeli society through community projects and support networks.
The influence:
Besides building personal connections, Rabbi Porath and his work played pivotal roles in shaping policy and discourse, as evident in his involvement with the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee’s Russian Department from 1993-2008.
What they’re saying:
Former Soviet Jews and Rabbi Porath’s USY students echo a shared sentiment of pride and inspiration, contributing to the narrative that even in oppressive regimes, the flame of Jewish identity can never be extinguished.
The bottom line:
As we contemplate the legacies of those who have fought for the rights and recognition of Soviet Jewry, figures like Rabbi Jonathan Porath remind us of the power of individual agency and the collective strength within the Jewish Diaspora to overcome adversity and celebrate their enduring spirit.
Go deeper:
For a deeper understanding of Rabbi Porath’s impact and the broader story of Soviet Jewry, exploring firsthand accounts and memoirs, such as Porath’s “Here We Are All Jews: 175 Russian-Jewish Journeys,” can provide a vivid picture of this critical period in Jewish history.
This story was first published on jpost.com.