Boston's 10 Most Interesting Jewish Facts

Hold onto your yarmulkes. On a scale of 1 to Jewish Summer Camp, how much do you know about Boston's Jewish identity? Have no fear – if you’re in need of a brush-up, we've got you covered with these ten tidbits.

1. Boston has over 70 young adult organizations, including Gin & Jews, New Center NOW and Young Jewish Professionals Boston (YJP).

Network, meet new friends, and maybe – just maybe – connect with that special someone. JDate, eat your heart out.

2. Live long and prosper – Leonard Nimoy (aka Mr. Spock) was born and raised in Boston’s West End neighborhood.

Via commons.wikimedia.org

3. Holocaust survivor and Nobel laureate Elie Wiesel has taught at Boston University since 1976.

Via myjewishlearning.com

Since 1976, he’s been the Andrew W. Mellon Professor in the Humanities – and he’s also a member of the faculty in both the Department of Philosophy and Department of Religion.

4. And speaking of BU…according to the 2013 Insider’s Guide to College Life, Boston University is the #2 school Jewish students choose nationwide.

NYU was #1…but who cares? #GoTerriers

5. Boston has the 7th largest Jewish population in the United States according to the World Jewish Congress, clocking in at 208,000.

Elan Kawesch

6. Boston has the oldest Jewish federation in the nation.

CJP, the Combined Jewish Philanthropies, was founded on April 25, 1895, when several local organizations came together as one. Our favorite? Hands down the Hebrew Ladies Sewing Society.

7. There are – count ‘em – close to 50 synagogues in Greater Boston.

John Rich Photography John Rich

Including Temple Ohabei Shalom in Brookline, the oldest Jewish congregation in Massachusetts (and the third oldest in New England).

8. 1,256 Greater Boston young adults go on Birthright trips each year.

10 full – FREE – days of Jewish and Israeli culture. Did we mention it's free? Check it out.

9. The Boston Jewish Film Festival was founded in 1989, and has grown from 10 screenings to more than 40.

Via whatculture.com

Numerous BJFF films have gone on to win Academy Awards, including "The Pianist" and "Nowhere in Africa." This year’s festival wrapped on November 17 – keep an eye on their featured films this awards season.

10. Zaftigs Delicatessen in Brookline was named one of the “10 Best Delis in America” by National Geographic.

Via sumairaflower.com

They’ve also received six Best of Boston Awards, a Reader’s Choice Award, were named a Great Ate by Phantom Gourmet, and…you get the idea.