Jews in China

This collection of essays highlights the significant cultural exchanges between Jews and China, showcasing Irene Eber's expertise in the field. Jews in China offers valuable insights into this overlooked relationship.

Irene Eber was a leading authority on the study of Jews in China throughout the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, a topic that has often been overlooked compared to the Jewish diaspora in Europe and the Americas. This volume compiles fourteen of Eber’s most significant articles and essays, showcasing the rich exchanges between Jewish and Chinese cultures. It serves as a valuable resource for students, scholars, and general readers, providing a representative sample of her extensive contributions to the field of Jews in China.

Jews in China explores the long-standing dialogue between Jewish culture and Chinese civilization, focusing on the theme of cultural translation. The first section offers a comprehensive overview of Jewish history in China, starting from the twelfth century and culminating in a thorough analysis of the years leading up to World War II. The second section delves into the translation of Chinese classics into Hebrew and vice versa, highlighting the intricate connections forged through these literary exchanges. The final section features modern literature, presenting eight essays that emphasize the cultural reciprocity achieved through translation.

The relationship between Judaism and China spans centuries and is frequently overshadowed by the more prominent narratives surrounding European and American Judaism. Through this volume, Eber illuminates the importance of understanding the intersections between Jewish identity and Chinese culture, reminding us of the rich tapestry of interactions that deserve recognition and study.