A Kabul synagogue refers to any of the places of worship (synagogues) historically used by the Jewish community in Kabul, the capital city of Afghanistan. While the Jewish community in Afghanistan has ancient roots, with significant communities existing in cities like Herat and Balkh, a notable Jewish presence also existed in Kabul for centuries.
Historical Context Jews have lived in Afghanistan for over a millennium, forming a small but distinct minority. By the early 20th century, the largest Jewish communities in Afghanistan were in Herat, followed by Kabul. These communities maintained their religious practices, including operating synagogues, which served as the central hubs for prayer, study, and communal gathering.
Synagogues in Kabul While historical records detailing multiple specific synagogues in Kabul with extensive architectural or communal histories are scarce compared to larger Jewish centers, the existence of at least one significant synagogue is well-documented, particularly in the later period of the community's existence. The most commonly referenced synagogue in Kabul was often known as the Pol-e Kheshti Synagogue or Pole Mishkin Shul, located in the old city area. This synagogue served as the primary place of worship for the dwindling Jewish population in Kabul through the 20th century.
Decline and Closure The Afghan Jewish community experienced a significant decline following the establishment of Israel in 1948. Most of Afghanistan's Jews emigrated to Israel between 1948 and 1968, leaving behind only a handful of individuals. By the late 20th century and early 21st century, the community in Kabul was reduced to only a few people, making the maintenance of a functional synagogue increasingly difficult.
The last known remaining Jew in Afghanistan, Zebulon Simentov, who served as a caretaker for the Pol-e Kheshti Synagogue for decades, left Afghanistan in 2021 after the Taliban's return to power. With his departure, the last active chapter of the Jewish presence in Kabul, and indeed Afghanistan, concluded, and no functioning synagogue remains in the city today. The synagogue building itself, if it still stands, is no longer in use as a Jewish house of worship.