The Heart of the Bukharian Jewish Community

Events

Stay connected with our latest community gatherings, learning opportunities, and celebrations.

Membership

Become a valued member of our community and connect with tradition, learning, and experiences.

Ask the Rabbis

Get answers to your questions about Judaism, faith, and traditions from our knowledgeable rabbis.

SHABBAT WEEK AT A GLANCE

Weekly Shabbat Times

WEEKLY / SHABBAT SCHEDULE

Join us for prayer services tailored for all generations

Main Minyan

Sun-Thur Mornings
7:30 a.m.
Evenings
6:15 p.m.

Shabbat Pray Times

Friday Night
7:30 p.m
Saturday Day
8:15 a.m.

Youth Minyan

Sun-Thur Mornings
7:30 a.m.
Evenings
6:15 p.m.

Shabbat Pray Times

Friday Night
7:30 p.m
Saturday Day
8:15 a.m.

Teen Minyan

Sun-Thur Mornings
7:30 a.m.
Evenings
6:15 p.m.

Shabbat Pray Times

Friday Night
7:30 p.m
Saturday Day
8:15 a.m.

Founded in 1965, BJCC celebrates Bukharian heritage, spirituality, and community, fostering tradition and togetherness.

ABOUT BJCC

Honoring Tradition, Embracing Community

Discover the legacy of the Bukharian Jewish Community and how we continue to grow together.

The Bukharian Jewish Community Center (BJCC) is the heart of the Bukharian Jewish community in Queens, offering vibrant prayer services, enriching holiday celebrations, cultural events, and Hebrew Sunday School to preserve our heritage and strengthen our future.

OUR HISTORY

A Century of Bukharian Jewish Heritage

Explore our journey and milestones that have shaped us into one of the most influential Bukharian synagogues worldwide.

4th Century

First Written
Record

Bukharan Jews are believed to have settled in Central Asia as early as the 6th century, with solid evidence of their presence from the 4th century CE.

1370

Start of
Timur’s Rule

During Timur’s 14th-century reign, Bukharan Jews contributed significantly to Central Asia’s reconstruction, especially in weaving and dyeing. They later came to dominate the region’s textile and dye industry.

1501

Start of Safavid dynasty and split with Iran

In the 16th century, religious and political divisions between Shia Iran and Sunni Central Asia split the Jewish communities, creating a distinct Bukharan Jewish identity.

1500s

Under Sunni Muslim Rule 1500s

Bukharan Jews lived under discriminatory Dhimmi laws, facing persecution and forced conversions, with strict dress codes and social restrictions. Despite oppression, they thrived as merchants and were confined to a Jewish quarter called the Mahalla.

OUR RABBIS

Spiritual Leaders of BJCC

Dedicated to leading, teaching, and strengthening the Bukharian Jewish community with wisdom and faith.

Chief Rabbi

Rabbi Baruch Babayev

As the spiritual leader of BJCC, Rabbi Baruch Babaev is dedicated to preserving Bukharian Jewish heritage, inspiring faith, and strengthening the community.

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Youth Minyan rabbi

Rabbi Asher Vaknin

Guiding the next generation with wisdom and warmth, Rabbi Asher Vaknim leads the youth minyan, fostering a deep connection to Torah and tradition.

teen Minyan rabbi

Rabbi David Shushan

Empowering young adults with meaningful prayer experiences, Rabbi David Shushan bridges tradition and modernity to inspire the leaders of tomorrow.

A Glimpse into Our Community

Explore the rich traditions, celebrations, and everyday moments that bring the Bukharian Jewish community together.

TESTIMONIALS

BJCC Reviews

Dedicated to leading, teaching, and strengthening the Bukharian Jewish community with wisdom and faith.