Pakistan
Bani Efraim
In the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, a self-identifying Jewish community known as the Bani Efraim is quietly growing. Numbering around 200 families, the community began its spiritual journey 2012 after departing from Christianity and embracing the Torah. They gradually adopted core Jewish practices, such as circumcision, Shabbat observance, and Torah study, and chose the name Bani Efraim, identifying themselves with the lost tribes of Israel. Community life is deeply spiritual, centered on the belief that Hashem has called them to return to Jewish tradition and prepare for redemption. Despite their precarious position in a Muslim-majority country, they continue to grow in learning and observance, while maintaining safety through anonymity. Their journey was documented in the 2022 film In the Next Year: Becoming Jewish in Pakistan.
Celebrating Pesah in Pakistan, 2025
Women praying shema in the synagogue, 2025
Preparing for Sukkot celebrations with Kulanu assistance, 2024
Community seder for Pesah, 2025
Families in a community sukkah, 2024
Denomination
Orthodox
Community size
Around 200 families
Languages
Urdu, English
Kulanu Support Since
2022
Kulanu has given us not only financial support, but also access to dedicated teachers and rabbis who help us study Torah and grow in our understanding of Judaism. Through their guidance, we’ve deepened our learning and strengthened our observance. They’ve also helped us celebrate our festivals with joy and dignity, making each holiday a true expression of our connection to the Jewish people
Discover Pakistan
A Quiet Return to Judaism
The Bene Ephraim began observing Torah commandments in earnest in 2012. They circumcised their sons, began regular Shabbat practice, and started teaching Torah systematically to men, women, and children. Believing themselves to be descendants of Ephraim, a lost tribe, they cite Zechariah as inspiration: that one day, people from many nations will grasp the corner of a Jew’s garment and say, “God is with you.” The community chose the name Bene Ephraim to reflect this spiritual identity and calling.
Education, Identity, and Secrecy
Hebrew songs are printed and distributed throughout the community. The group runs Torah classes by age and gender, creating lesson materials in Urdu and drawing heavily on online Jewish educational resources. Through websites, videos, and direct study of Tanakh and rabbinic teachings, they have sought to emulate Jewish life to the best of their ability. At first, children proudly shared their new beliefs at school—until the community faced backlash. Neighbors accused them of being “Jewish agents,” of inciting rebellion by refusing to celebrate Christmas, and tried to close down their place of worship. As persecution increased, they resolved to keep their Jewish lives private: “It took time, but even the children understood that we must be careful. We cannot share what we are learning outside.
Global Support and Aspirations
Since 2022, Kulanu has supported the Bene Ephraim in their effort to connect with global Jewry. The community studies with the help of teachers and rabbis abroad, and is inspired by orthodox thought, especially from Israel. Their goal is to one day undergo formal conversion. Until then, they live modestly but with fierce devotion to Torah, seeing themselves as returning to the truth of their ancestors.