Greek Jews Protest Promotion of ‘Judas Burning’ Easter Ritual
Graphic by Angelie Zaslavsky
ATHENS, Greece (JTA) — The Greek Jewish community has protested to the Greek National Tourism Agency after its website and brochures listed the Easter practice of “Judas burning” as a recommended folk attraction.
“This custom perpetuates anti-Semitic feelings and it is characteristic that in other European countries it has almost vanished,” said the letter sent Friday by the Central Board of Jewish Communities in Greece.
The tourism website tells travelers they “can observe the ancient ritual of ‘Judas Burning’ reviving: an effigy of Judas made by wood and straw- and filled with explosives- is set on fire!”
The same information was also included in a brochure handed out by the Greek Embassy in Washington DC, the letter said.
“We have repeatedly turned to the authorities, demanding that, in our country too, this custom be abolished,” the Jewish community said, noting that the Greek Orthodox Church has discouraged the practice for over a century.
Jewish groups see the practice as encouraging the belief that Jews killed Jesus, long a source of anti-Semitism. In some areas of Greece the practice has also been referred to as “Burning of the Jew.”
I’m personally matching all gifts to the Forward, up to $36,000. Can I match your gift now?
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
Support our mission to tell the Jewish story fully and fairly.
