In the heart of Panama City lies a vibrant Jewish community, where traditions intertwine with modernity against the backdrop of Latin American culture. The New York Jewish Travel Guide had the privilege of sitting down with Rabbi Aaron Laine, the Chief Rabbi of the Ashkenazi Jewish community of Panama, to delve into the rich tapestry of Jewish life in this bustling Central American metropolis. Our conversation, though edited for clarity, illuminated the journey of Rabbi Laine and the dynamic landscape of Jewish culture in Panama.

Rabbi Laine’s connection to Panama traces back to 1994, when the Ashkenazi community was seeking a rabbi. Raised in a Chabad household, Rabbi Laine’s upbringing instilled in him a deep sense of community service and outreach. With familial ties to Panama and a calling to serve, Rabbi Laine embarked on his journey to Panama City, marking the beginning of a remarkable chapter in his life. Initially stationed in Obarrio, Rabbi Laine witnessed the evolution of the synagogue over the years, culminating in the establishment of Beth El Synagogue in Paitilla in 2014.

The transition from the United States to Latin America presented its share of challenges for Rabbi Laine. Adapting to cultural nuances, such as relaxed punctuality and a more traditional community ethos, required a period of adjustment. Yet, amidst these differences, Rabbi Laine found solace in the warmth and tradition embedded within the Panamanian Jewish community. Even those less observant actively participated in rituals such as Friday night meals and Kiddush, fostering a sense of cohesion and connection.

Beth El Synagogue, New York Jewish Travel Guide

Panama’s Jewish community is geographically dispersed, with distinct enclaves across the city. Punta Pacifica emerged as a hub for Sephardic Jews, while Bella Vista and Marbella housed smaller yet vibrant Jewish populations. Despite the diversity of neighborhoods, the sense of unity within the community remains palpable.

In Punta Pacifica, Bet Max Ve Sarah stands as a testament to the thriving Sephardic community, complementing the Ashkenazi synagogues scattered throughout the city. Over the years, Beth El Synagogue has witnessed remarkable growth, with approximately 400 families calling it their spiritual home. This expansion is not only attributed to internal factors but also to an influx of individuals relocating from countries across Latin America and beyond, contributing to the community’s diversity and vitality.

The history of Beth El Synagogue is intertwined with the broader narrative of Panama’s Jewish community. Founded officially in 1944, the synagogue has undergone several transformations, reflecting the community’s resilience and adaptability. From humble beginnings in a social hall to the grandeur of its current location in Paitilla, Beth El Synagogue stands as a beacon of Jewish life in Panama City.

In addition to its rich historical roots, Panama’s Jewish community actively embraces global initiatives aimed at preserving tradition and nurturing unity.  An exemplary initiative in this regard is the Shabbat Project, under the leadership of the Chief Rabbi of South Africa. This annual event encourages participation in activities that celebrate the sanctity of Shabbat. Through these collective efforts, not only is the significance of the Sabbath reinforced, but bonds within the community and with others worldwide are also strengthened.

Over the past two decades, the Jewish community in Panama City has experienced a profound transformation, marking a resurgence in its cultural vibrancy and communal engagement. What once stood as a bastion of tradition and kosher adherence has now evolved into a dynamic hub, bustling with synagogues, kosher eateries, and educational initiatives.

At the forefront of this transformation was the esteemed Rabbi Sion Levy z’l, whose legacy continues to shape the community’s trajectory. Rooted in Sephardic tradition, Rabbi Levy’s z’l, leadership ushered in a new era of growth and exploration, where tradition met innovation. His emphasis on preserving kosher practices and nurturing communal bonds laid the foundation for a flourishing community, one that was both rooted in the past and poised for the future.

Central to Rabbi Levy’s z’l, vision was the establishment of the first Kollel, a center for study and learning that served as a beacon of knowledge and inspiration. With the support of the Azrak family’s sponsorship of the Barilkas, this educational initiative ignited a passion for Jewish learning among community members, young and old alike. Through study and reflection, individuals found a deeper connection to their faith, leading to a resurgence in observance and cultural pride.

Beth El Synagogue, New York Jewish Travel Guide

Yet, the transformation of Panama City’s Jewish community extends beyond the walls of the synagogue. It is a testament to the resilience and unity of its members, who, despite their diverse backgrounds, came together in pursuit of a shared heritage. The relationship between the Sephardic and Ashkenazi communities, once marked by distinctions, has evolved into a tapestry of mutual respect and collaboration. Together, they have pooled resources and expertise, investing in shared institutions and fostering a sense of belonging that transcends cultural divides.

However, as the community thrives, it also faces challenges, both internal and external. The dynamics between the Reform and Orthodox factions, though generally harmonious, underscore the diversity of beliefs and practices within the community.

Despite the hurdles, the Jewish community in Panama City stands firm and optimistic about what lies ahead. With a strong foundation built on timeless values of tradition, education, and unity, its members are poised to overcome challenges together. Through continued collaboration and unwavering dedication to their shared heritage, they not only aim to preserve their legacy but also to inspire future generations to embrace the vibrant tapestry of Jewish life in Panama and beyond.

Our conversation commenced with an exploration of cultural customs, particularly those surrounding Passover and Shabbat dinners, as well as the availability of social services for seniors. While Shabbat lunches are cherished as a communal tradition, Passover dinners aren’t held at Beth El since most families prefer celebrating at home together. However, tourists and visitors have the opportunity to join Passover dinners at the Chabad house. Nonetheless, initiatives like Beth Simha demonstrate the community’s commitment to offering assistance and companionship to its elderly members.

The focal point of our conversation centered on the difficulties surrounding conversions to Judaism in Latin America. The absence of a local Beth Din presents significant hurdles, necessitating candidates to typically undergo local preparation before being recommended to the Israeli Rabbinate for conversion, often outside Panama and predominantly in Israel, where the conversion process can be pursued further.

As we delved into the educational landscape and outreach initiatives, our conversation underscored the community’s multifaceted engagement. From addressing enrollment policies for families with mixed religious backgrounds to extending support to the Jewish community in Cuba, there’s a profound dedication evident to both internal growth and external assistance.

Beth El Synagogue, New York Jewish Travel Guide

Synagogue dynamics and communal celebrations emerged as focal points of our dialogue, revealing the community’s rich tapestry of faith and unity. From varying membership tiers to vibrant holiday festivities, including Hanukkah, Purim, and Simchat Torah, the community’s cultural expressions serve as a testament to its enduring traditions.

Our conversation also delved into demographic trends and commemorative rituals within the community. While there was stability in the demographic landscape before COVID-19, a slight decline afterward highlights the community’s resilience amidst global challenges. Furthermore, observances like Holocaust Remembrance Day showcase the community’s unwavering commitment to honoring its past and educating future generations.

Lastly, we explored the realm of community support services and philanthropic endeavors. From fundraising initiatives supporting educational institutions and synagogues to organizations addressing diverse needs, such as Mattan Baseter and Tzedakah Umarpe, the community’s ethos of compassion and solidarity shines through.

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Story by Meyer Harroch, New York Jewish Travel Guide.com, and New York Jewish Guide.com

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