Jews are part of the history of France, but are they part of its future?

• Published date: 12 April 2024
• Author: MICHAEL STARR
• Publication title: Jerusalem Post, The: Web Edition Articles (Israel)

The synagogue, Sebbag enthusiastically detailed, was the place that the falsely accused French military officer Richard Dreyfus was wed, and was visited by Theodor Herzl when he wrote his seminal work The Jewish State. The synagogue's chambers welcomed almost every visiting Israeli prime minister and president since Herzl's vision came to fruition. When local politicians held Holocaust memorial services, they were at Sebbag's storied shul

Sebbag said that the history of the synagogues shows how the Jews have always been a part of the history of Paris. Be it Dreyfus or former prime minister Leon Blum, the history of French Jews was the history of France, Sebbag explained, and the history of France was the history of French Jews -- In his eyes there was no division to be made."The people that have prayed here have been central to France," said Sebbag.

Yet as the pages of history quickly turn, Sebbag admits that antisemitism, unassimilated immigrant populations, and challenges to French national identity render the next chapters uncertain.

Sebbag pondered the question of rising antisemitism in his study, to the backdrop of a French, European Union, and Israeli flag. He didn't agree with the perception Jew-hatred had become so rife that one couldn't walk down the street without encountering antisemitism -- But acknowledged that his sense was informed by a false sense of security created by all the precautions taken. Recently, an orthodox Jewish drum player from a band that played at a Jewish Agency and Immigration Ministry event at the synagogue was met with shouts of "Allahu akbar" as he went about his business in the city of light.

Sebbag mused that perhaps at times he downplayed antisemitism because he is a community leader and doesn't want to panic his congregants, but noted that "all the security is not a normal life."

There is a permanent armed Gendarmerie in front of the holy site, reinforced by police and cordoned off streets when there are major Jewish events. To enter the synagogue, one needs to go through a security check, presenting identification. Parents can't bring their children to school without extensive security, said the rabbi. Many don't walk around as identifiable Jews, covering their heads with hats and tucking in religious garments. Sebbag's wife is a pediatrician at a hospital, and doesn't tell anyone what her husband does. In the wake of the October 7 Massacre, colleagues have asked her if her family is okay, but she actively avoids...