Shanghai Hosts Thriving 5,000-Strong Jewish Community Amid Cultural Revival

Shanghai hosts a quietly flourishing Jewish community led by Rabbi Shalom and Dina Greenberg, who have nurtured a diverse group of Jewish expats and locals since 1998, rooted in a history of Jewish migration to China over the past 150 years. This community, which includes Americans, Israelis, and French Jews among others, operates a modest synagogue and kosher kitchen, reflecting a warm and inclusive atmosphere without inherent antisemitism, as noted by emissary Dina Greenberg. In education, a unique cultural collaboration between Chinese educators and Israeli democratic education pioneer Yaacov Hecht is transforming traditional Chinese classrooms, encouraging dialogue and student voice, which has led to improved academic outcomes despite initial resistance. Meanwhile, social media influencer Zitong Jia from China has gained widespread attention by sharing cultural insights that bridge understanding between Chinese and American audiences, highlighting the nuances of cultural norms and fostering cross-cultural dialogue. Additionally, economic ties between China and the Middle East are strengthening, with Chinese merchants in cities like Yiwu learning Arabic to better engage with Middle Eastern buyers, illustrating growing intercultural commerce. Together, these stories highlight the dynamic intersections of Jewish life, education reform, cultural exchange, and economic cooperation involving China and broader global communities.