Judaism in Belarus

The birth of Judaism in Belarus dates back to the fourteenth century when the Jewish merchants came and settled here. Judaism in Belarus was never encouraged at that point of time. Jews were then expelled from the country. Though Jews in Belarus were allowed to settle down in Belarus, they had to face great antagonism from the followers of other religions. Conflicts continued and some of them even had to adapt Christianity against their will. The scenario however changed during the 19th century when Judaism influenced the people of Belarus under the influence of two leaders of Hasidim. These two leaders were Menachem Mendel and Shneur Zalman. A large number of Jews immigrated to Belarus during the First World War.

The Government prohibited Judaism practice in Belarus for a certain period of time. This time also saw the destruction of various synagogues and cemeteries but Judaism was recognized officially in the year 2002.

According to the consensus taken in 1999, the number of Jews in Belarus comes to around 29,000. The major chunk of the population resides in the capital city of Minsk. The associations and communities of the Jews are located in 24 different cities in Belarus. The Jewish associations run quite a few schools in Belarus and the association also takes care of the poor and ill Jews.



The Government's Antisemitism policy before 2002 could not dissuade the Jews from anything in Belarus. They have formed a number of associations and groups to overcome the problems and discriminations faced by the Jews of Belarus.