Unraveling the Mystery of the Khazars

The Place: The Kingdom of Khazaria. Plausibility: Assimilated into communities

"Your intentions are commendable, but your actions are not" - This phrase, heard by King Bulan of the Khazars from an angel in a dream, was the catalyst that led to the conversion of the Khazar kingdom to Judaism. It remains unknown how widespread conversion was in Khazaria - whether it encompassed all social strata or was limited to a narrow class of nobles and court affiliates.

Regardless, Khazaria existed as an independent Jewish kingdom for about 200 years. It was eventually conquered in a combined assault by Byzantines from the south and Russians from the north. But what became of the Jews who lived there? Did they remain in place? Were they exiled? Did they assimilate into their surroundings? Is there any trace of them left?

In the 20th century, a sensational claim emerged that the Jews of Ashkenaz were the descendants of the exiled Khazars. This claim remains popular among those who wish to undermine the Jewish connection to Israel.

A more plausible theory is that the Khazar Jews simply assimilated into local communities in the Caucasus region. At the edge of Khazaria lay the 'Caspian Wall,' a formidable barrier intended to prevent the wild tribes of the Asian steppes from bursting into the Near East. Vague memories of the grandeur of Khazar's kingdom, combined with rumors about Jews living beneath a vast wall at the world's edge, spawned stories about the 'Reoyte Yiddalach' – the 'Red Jews.' According to legend, in the end of days, Gog and Magog will breach the wall in an attempt to conquer the world, only to be defeated by the Red Jews in a final battle that will herald the arrival of our righteous Messiah.

It's worth noting that during a recent visit to the area where the 'Caspian Wall' once stood, we saw fair and dark Jews, enthusiastic and indifferent Jews. Red Jews we did not see, further complicating the mystery.