From Tehran to Torah
An unlikely path to Judaism
This week on edJEWcation, we sit down with William Mehrvarz, whose story takes us from the streets of Tehran to the Shabbat tables of New York. Born into a devout Shia Muslim family in Iran, William’s path veered when a camp roommate handed him a Bible written in Farsi. What followed was years of secret study, political upheaval, and dangerous choices, culminating in his escape from Iran, asylum in America, and ultimately, conversion to Judaism.
We talk with William about:
The contrasts between Fridays in Tehran, filled with hate-filled chants vs. Shabbats filled with song and rest
How his first marriage exposed his hidden faith and nearly cost him everything
The loneliness and beauty of his conversion journey
What it means to be proudly both Persian and Jewish
And why he believes America may be living in a “golden age” for Jews outside of Israel
It’s a story of risk, resilience, and renewal — a reminder of how one person’s search for truth can transform an entire life.
It was such a treat listening to William’s story. As someone who converted 30 years ago in their early 20’s, I adore anyone else who has also fallen in love with being Jewish. Thank you so much!
And yes, Jewish education needs work. I’m trying to find a Jewish high school for my son with a reading disorder here in New York City which one would think would be easy considering it’s the city with the most Jews outside of Israel but our one option is in West Chester -it’s insanity.