The Historical Context: Jews in Persia Before Mashhad
Jewish communities have lived in Persia—modern-day Iran—for over 2,500 years, dating back to the time of the Babylonian Exile. For centuries, Jews in Persia experienced periods of relative tolerance interspersed with discrimination.
By the 18th and 19th centuries, Jewish communities existed in several Persian cities, including Tehran, Isfahan, and Mashhad. While they were often considered second-class citizens under Islamic rule, many communities managed to maintain their traditions, synagogues, and internal autonomy.
Mashhad, however, would become the site of one of the most dramatic episodes in Jewish history.
