Rabbi shows interfaith relations in Azerbaijan at Religious Freedom Forum on Capitol Hill

Rabbi Zamir Isayev, representing Azerbaijan's Sephardi Jewish community, presented a compelling picture of religious coexistence and tolerance in his Muslim-majority nation at a religious freedom forum on Capitol Hill. He appeared alongside Pastor Rasim Khalilov, head of the Azerbaijan Bible Society, at an event organized by the IRF Secretariat.

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A person should not have to choose between religious identity and loyalty to the country.

Isayev argued that true religious tolerance extends beyond legislation to the practical ability of minority communities to sustain their institutions and openly practice their faith. He contrasted Azerbaijan's environment with the insecurity faced by Jewish communities in some European countries, asserting that Azerbaijanis can embrace their religious identity and national loyalty simultaneously. "A person should not have to choose between religious identity and loyalty to the country," Isayev stated, adding that individuals should not diminish their faith or national allegiance by respecting other religions or serving their country.

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A Muslim should not become less Muslim by respecting a synagogue. A Jew should not become less Jewish by loving and serving his country. A Christian should not have to choose between devotion to faith and national identity.

He detailed how religious minorities in Azerbaijan are not forced to choose between their faith and their national identity. "A Muslim should not become less Muslim by respecting a synagogue. A Jew should not become less Jewish by loving and serving his country. A Christian should not have to choose between devotion to faith and national identity," he explained. This model, Isayev suggested, demonstrates that religious identity and national loyalty need not be competing commitments.

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Assalamu alaikum.

Isayev provided concrete examples of this coexistence, noting that his community's synagogue, school, kindergarten, and kosher services operate freely in Baku. Jewish children receive both a Jewish education and a secular Azerbaijani education, growing up as citizens of their country. He shared a personal anecdote about greeting an imam in Arabic and receiving a Hebrew greeting in return, illustrating that this spirit of coexistence is woven into daily life, not confined to formal discussions.

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Boker tov.