LithuanianJewish

Lithuanian Jews, also known as Litvaks, are a Jewish diaspora group with origins in the lands of the former Grand Duchy of Lithuania. This historical region encompassed present-day Lithuania, Belarus, parts of Poland, Ukraine, and Russia. Historically, Litvak communities were characterized by their distinctive Yiddish dialect and a strong emphasis on Talmudic scholarship and religious learning. Vilnius, often referred to as the "Jerusalem of Lithuania," was a major center of Jewish intellectual and religious life for centuries.

The Litvak culture developed a unique tradition of debate and intellectual inquiry, contributing significantly to Jewish philosophy and halakha (Jewish law). While deeply religious, Litvak society also saw a rise in secular and Zionist movements, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Many Litvaks were involved in trade, crafts, and intellectual professions.

The 20th century brought immense tragedy to Lithuanian Jewry. The Holocaust resulted in the near-total annihilation of the Jewish population in Lithuania, with the vast majority murdered by the Nazis and their collaborators. Following World War II and subsequent Soviet rule, the remaining Jewish community dwindled due to emigration and assimilation. Today, a small but vibrant Jewish community continues to exist in Lithuania, preserving its heritage and working to commemorate its past. Litvak diaspora communities can also be found in Israel, the United States, Canada, and other parts of the world, maintaining a connection to their ancestral homeland and cultural legacy.