Nehar Shalom Community Synagogue

Address: 6 Eliot St, Boston, MA 02130

Years Active: 2005–Present

Tradition: Judaism

Nehar Shalom (literally “River of Peace” in English)  is a progressive, non-denominational synagogue based in Jamaica Plain, a neighborhood of Boston. The synagogue, which is based inside the First Church in Jamaica Plan, was founded in 2005 by Rabbi Victor Reinstein, in order to be a progressive community with roots and influence in Hasidism. Hasidism is a sect of Orthodox (Haredi) Judaism that focuses on mysticism in addition to strict religious observance. Nehar Shalom builds on the Hasidic concept of a Shtibl, a smaller Hasidic shul, dedicated to both prayer and learning in addition to deep communal ties and connection. 

Although it is influenced by Hasidism, Nehar Shalom is a modern and progressive community, embracing non-denominational and participatory Judaism. The synagogue  has offerings for community engagement, services, and Jewish learning, all of which are open for all members of the community. “Nehar Shalom,” they note on their website, “has always been committed to social, racial, and economic justice,” which includes welcoming Jews (and non-Jews, and interfaith couples) from a wide variety of backgrounds: “queer and trans Jews; Jews of color, mixed-race, and white Jews; Ashkenazi, Sephardi, and Mizrahi Jews; people from all different class backgrounds and access to money; and folks who are disabled and chronically ill.”

Sources and Further Reading: 

https://www.neharshalomjp.org/

https://www.neharshalomjp.org/rabbi-victor-s-words-of-torah

https://www.neharshalomjp.org/welcome-mission-and-vision 

https://www.jtsa.edu/torah/exploring-kabbalah-episode-7/

This entry was written by Dalya Lessem Elnecave (with contributions from Nicole Collins) in October 2026.