Cochin Jews
Cochin Jews, also known as the Malabar Jews, are one of the oldest Jewish communities in the world, residing in the southwestern Indian state of Kerala, primarily in the principality of Cochin.
Most of the community migrated to Israel during the 50s and 60s of the 20th century. Only 25 people remain in the Cochin area today.
Origins
Cochin Jews trace their presence in India as far back as 3,000 years, from the period of King Solomon, possibly arriving in waves to the Malabar coast.
Occupation
They likely came as traders since ancient times, using Kerala’s thriving spice trade as an entry point. During the last centuries, they still worked as traders, though in the 20th century, many of them worked in the civil service as teachers, administrators, etc.
Synagogues
Eight Synagogues existed in the Jewish settlements in the 20th century: 2 in Ernakulam, 3 in Cochin, 1 each in North Parur, Mala, and Chendamangalam. Three of them were renovated by the Kerala government and turned into Museums under the Muziris Project.
Cultural Blend
They spoke
Judeo-Malayalam, a Malayalam
dialect with Hebrew.
Relations with the native population
They were welcomed by local kings. The Chera kings from the 10th-11th centuries have granted them land and rights, including religious freedom, which are engraved in the famous copper plates.