Jewish, Syrian / Lebanese in United States

People Name:	Jewish, Syrian / Lebanese
Country:	United States
10/40 Window:	No
Population:	77,000
World Population:	77,000
Primary Language:	Arabic, Levantine
Primary Religion:	Ethnic Religions
Christian Adherents:	2.00 %
Evangelicals:	1.00 %
Scripture:	Portions
Ministry Resources:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Jewish
Affinity Bloc:	Jewish
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Syrian/Lebanese Jewish community began in the early 20th century. By the 1950s they had their own synagogue. They settled in Manhattan then spread out into Brooklyn. They eventually spread out even further into New Jersey and Miami, FL. Today the so called “Syrian” Jews are actually a cluster of several communities. Others had to flee Syria in the 1970s after they were regarded by the Syrian government as “aggressive combatants.”

What Are Their Lives Like?

They have a reputation for being business savvy. Syrian Jewish people can be shop owners who sell textiles, clothes and electronic goods. Some own restaurants or summer resorts.

These Jewish people often send their children to Jewish schools though many attend local public schools. Boys often joined their fathers in their businesses.

They frown upon allowing people to convert to Judaism, and they do not tolerate marriage outside of their religion. Those who marry outside the faith must leave their community.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Judaism is very diverse. There are Jewish people who take their faith very seriously. Others attend synagogue occasionally. It is common for Jewish people to live secular lives while identifying as Jewish.

What Are Their Needs?

The Syrian/Lebanese Jewish people need the spiritual hunger it takes to find their Messiah no matter what the cost.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to speak to the heart of Syrian/Lebanese Jewish leaders, leading them to open the door to the only Messiah.
Pray for loving and culturally sensitive workers to go to these Jewish people in the United States.
Pray for Syrian/Lebanese Jewish people to become disciples who will disciple others.