The Neve Shalom Synagogue serves as a space of refuge and great importance for the Jewish (mainly Ashkenazi) community in Paramaribo, Suriname. Originally constructed in 1719, this synagogue was meant to serve as a replacement for the Joden Savanne settlement, a thriving plantation that established Suriname as a successful agricultural colony before the French invasion of 1712. It was largely recognized as being the main place for Jews in Suriname to worship. The Neve Shalom Synagogue was especially significant during the Inquisition, serving as a religious space and sanctuary for Jews who were afraid to publicly embrace their faith, namely Marranos, or those who had been forced to convert to Catholicism. One thing that I notice about Neve Shalom’s architecture is that it is similar to that of a typical house; perhaps this is related to the Jewish community’s need to remain inconspicuous in the eyes of the Inquisition.

When examining the interior of Neve Shalom, it becomes apparent that much of the synagogue is constructed out of beautifully done woodwork. Neve Shalom was renovated and repaired many times during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, with one from 1854 being largely responsible for how the synagogue looks in present time. Suriname’s dedication to protecting and preserving such a significant religious structure is just another example of the Jewish community’s steadfast commitment to their faith.

Sources:

Leibman, Laura. “Jewish Atlantic World .” Rdc.reed.edu, rdc.reed.edu/c/jewishatl/home/.

Shields, Jacqueline. Suriname Virtual Jewish History Tour, www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/suriname-virtual-jewish-history-tour.

“Suriname Synagogues.” Suriname Jewish Life, 2020, www.surinamejewishcommunity.com/synagogues.