Kochi: 818-year-old synagogue reopens, devotees welcome 'Sefer Torah'

818-year-old Kadavumbagam synagogue on Market Road in Ernakulam, which was closed for worship since 1972, reopened on Thursday on the occasion of its anniversary.

On the occasion, the Sefer Torah, which is a handwritten copy of the Torah (holy scripture), was brought from Israel and kept in the renovated synagogue.

In Judaism, Torah is the law of God as revealed to Moses and recorded in the first five books of the Hebrew Scriptures.

Speaking to ANI, Youl Elias, a man who came from Israel especially for the occasion, said the reopening of the synagogue would help impart knowledge to younger generations of Jews.

"My parents shifted to Israel in 1954. Jews of Israel are staying in various parts of the world. This is a big celebration, we are very happy. My parents used to pray here. This place can help the young people of the community to know their culture and heritage. This occasion is very special for us," he said.

Youne Mote, whose family migrated to Israel around 55 years ago, also echoed similar sentiments.

A number of people from the Jewish community gathered to welcome the Sefer Torah to the revamped synagogue