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Map of Kermanshah in 1966, drawn by Engineer Homayoun Ebrahimi – (Click to zoom)
Overview of the people of Kermanshah
Without a doubt, the people of Kermanshah owe the kindness they are known for in the vast expanse of Iran to the unique characteristics that they have inherited from the Kurds. They are renowned for their brotherhood, equality, and hospitality. Surprisingly, these qualities are also shared by the Jewish community of this city. Like their Muslim brothers, the Jews of Kermanshah have been and continue to be lovers of hospitality and kindness. It is worth mentioning that the history of the Kurds in Iran predates even that of the Medes.
The people of Kermanshah are distinguished by their good thoughts, good words, and good deeds. They are simple-hearted, cheerful, and very hospitable. Their relationship with people of different faiths is harmonious. For example, when I was a student at the Alliance High School in Kermanshah, there were a large number of Muslims, Christians, Armenians, and Baha’is with us in the elementary and high schools. We had a warm and respectful relationship that has continued to this day.
Social and Cultural Integration
Language
The Jews of Kermanshah are perhaps the only Jews in Iran who do not have a Jewish dialect. They speak the same language as their fellow citizens, and there is no difference between the dialect of a Kermanshahi Jew and a Muslim from that city.
Education
The Alliance High School was one of the first prominent educational institutions in Kermanshah, established over a century ago by French Jews. Initially, the administrators, who came from France, managed the school with great diligence and attention to detail. This dedication attracted the children of national and military dignitaries, who continued their education at both the Alliance elementary and high schools.
There were also many people from Kermanshah who had graduated from the Alliance High School and were familiar with French, as it was taught in that institution.
Interfaith peace
The historical and beautiful Tagh Bostan tourist complex, located six kilometers from the city, was a very beautiful place with a pleasant climate. The Sassanian kings used it as a hunting ground and for their summer retreats and festivities. They left behind valuable sculptures there, and the UNESCO World Organization has classified Tagh Bostan as one of the world’s historical heritage sites.
This tourist complex was beloved by all the believers of the city. Sometimes we would go to Tagh Bostan for several days, pitch tents, and sleep. There were also Muslims, Armenians, and others from the city who would come and we would enjoy each other’s company.
Attire
Kurdish clothing was widespread among the locals, but Jewish citizens wore it less often, except for those who lived in surrounding counties like Kerend and Ghasr-e Shirin.
Economy
Work in Kermanshah Oil Refinery
The Kermanshah oil refinery, which was built by the British near Ghareh Sou River, four kilometers from the city, was a source of income for the people of the city. The refinery employed a large number of workers from the city and surrounding villages. Kermanshahi graduates also worked in the refinery and its various sections. Prominent Jewish managers from the city worked in the refinery and were also proficient in English.
Vodka production
Some Jews in the city who distilled vodka in their homes using raisins from Malayer. They sold it in half-liter and one-liter bottles. The first alcohol and vodka processing factory, called “Resomat”, which was under government supervision, was established by several Kermanshahi Jews. It had dozens of workers and sent its products to other cities in the country.
Jewish bazaar
The Jews of the city had great knowledge of commerce. There was a bazaar in the center of the city that is still called the Jewish Bazaar. The stalls in the bazaar were elevated, and I remember the sellers sitting and working about a meter above the ground. All kinds of goods and foodstuffs were sold in this bazaar, especially the famous Kermanshahi Giveh, which are called “klash” in the local dialect (handmade shoes woven with thread).
Other Products of Kermanshah
Dairy
Kermanshah’s sheep-milk ghee is widely popular throughout Iran. The lush pastures of the mountains surrounding the city attract shepherds to these green areas, and their sheep produce the best milk, yogurt, and dairy products, which are then transformed into buttermilk, butter, and other special products of the city, one of which is “shiraj”, which is made from sour buttermilk and is very tasty.
Sweets
Kermanshah rice cakes also have their own place among Iranians. People come from every corner of Iran to this city to enjoy the rice cakes made with Kermanshahi ghee.
Another type of special Kermanshah sweets is “kak zardeh-ye tukhm-e morgh” (egg yolk cake), homemade bread, “sharbati” (a type of sweet), and “ghuchan” (a type of pastry) that the locals are familiar with.
And what could I say about Kermanshah’s Cholo Kabab that would not be disservice to it?
Life
Religious life
The synagogues inside the city were always filled. During Yom Kippur, the authorities would send police to protect the worshippers at the Yakub Nonoo Synagogue, which was built near the Sheikh Haadi Mosque by a wealthy Baghdadi Jew from the Nonoo family.
Another synagogue was later built at the Alliance High School. However, as many Jews emigrated to Israel, the number of people attending this synagogue gradually decreased.
One of the oldest synagogues in Kermanshah was the Hadash (i.e., New) Synagogue, which was located in a small street near the Tir Foroshan Square (locally known as the “electricity pole square”).
National service
All Jewish men of Kermanshah served in the army and were loyal to their homeland, Iran. Many prominent Jewish officers served in the Iranian army, such as Brigadier General Dr. Soleiman Adhami and Brigadier General Dr. Behjou.
Politics
The late Shmuel Haim, who was born in Kermanshah, was a member of the Iranian Parliament during the reign of Reza Shah. His life was full of ups and downs that are worth studying.
With love and friendship,
Engineer Homayoun Ebrahimi
The Bisotun Historical Complex was registered on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2006.