Jews in Iceland: A Comprehensive Overview
The question of whether there are Jews in Iceland has been a common one, largely driven by the country's size and the number of religious communities it supports. According to recent data, the Jewish population in Iceland is very small, with estimates ranging from 100 to 300 individuals. This article will delve into the availability, registration, and historical context of the Jewish community in Iceland.
Religious Registration and Community Numbers
Unlike some countries where religious affiliation is mandatory, Iceland does not mandate believers to register their religion. Consequently, it is challenging to obtain an exact count of Jews residing in Iceland. According to the latest registration, a Jewish community was recognized as a 'religious organization' in March of the current year. This recognition came about despite the low number of officially registered members—estimated at around 50. This was the first official registration for a Jewish community in Iceland, highlighting the recent development in the presence of Jews in the country.
It is important to note that the official registration of religious groups is not mandatory in Iceland. Thus, while estimates are available, the actual numbers may vary. The number of officially recognized Jews in Iceland is part of the 'other' category of religious groups, which includes .9% of the total population. However, this percentage may or may not solely represent the Jewish population.
No Synagogues but Plenty of Religious Diversity
Oddly, Iceland does not boast the presence of a synagogue or a public prayer house for Jews. However, the country is open and supportive of various religious communities. While there is a mosque for Muslims, a plan to build a real mosque exists, driven by the growing Muslim population in the country. In stark contrast, no such plans exist for establishing a synagogue. The diversity of religious practices in Iceland includes far more than Jews; for instance, there are organizations dedicated to Jedi, Spaghetti Monsters, and Zoroastrianism, among others.
It is not that Iceland rejects or dislikes Jewish communities. In fact, the receptiveness to various religious groups is part of the country's cultural openness. However, the lack of interest in settling in Iceland among Jews may be due to a variety of factors, such as their focus on other destinations or a preference for larger communities. Notably, the article in the Forward from 2013 suggested that most Jews in Iceland come from secular backgrounds, indicating that the community does not lean towards strict observance.
Historical Context and Recognition
The first Jewish community to gain recognition as a religious group in Iceland did so this past March, marking a significant milestone in the country's religious landscape. The official registration process for religions in Iceland typically involves a series of stringent requirements, including the submission of membership lists and the demonstration of community activities. However, given the small size of the Jewish community, the administrative burden and recognition process for the community may have been lower.
One interesting anecdote regarding the Jewish presence in Iceland is the history of Nathan Olsen. The company that bears the name Nathan Olsen was established in 1912 by a Danish Jew, Frits Heymann Nathan. Along with Danish immigrant Carl Olsen, the business built a multi-storey building in Reykjavík in 1917, which still stands today as one of the most prominent structures in the city. The Nathan Olsen building now houses several significant businesses, including one of the city's top-rated restaurants.
Why Jews in Iceland?
Given the recent developments and the presence of a handful of Jews in Iceland, it is worth asking why this community has not grown. One possible explanation is that this country may not offer the same appeal as other destinations for Jewish individuals. Iceland, with its cold climate and relatively small population, may not be the first choice for many Jews when considering a new home. Additionally, the country's economic and social environment may not attract the same level of interest as more established Jewish communities in larger and more diverse nations.
While the official registration of religious communities in Iceland is a recent development, it highlights the country's open and inclusive approach to different religious practices. The presence of Jews in Iceland, albeit minimal, is part of this broader context of religious diversity. As Iceland continues to recognize and accommodate various religious groups, the Jewish community's journey in the country may continue to evolve.