The story of "Binyomin Khudoi-dat"

Once upon a time, in Bukhara, around one-hundred years ago, Jews were vehemently suppressed by the "Imir"-The King of the city of Bukhara. Of course, he would make them pay taxes and made religious life impossible for many of the Jews. There was however, one law in particular that created a great barrier between the Bucharian Jews and the rest of their surroundings. They were not allowed to shake hands with the gentiles.

One day, a Jew by the name of Binyamin who was walking in the "bazaar" or marketplace of the town square, and was intending to purchase whatever produce he needed. When he approached the booth where he was about to buy the fruits from, he unconsciously streched his hand out to the salesman in an effort to shake his hand.

"What!" exclaimed the man,"How dare you shake my hand!"
Binyamin quiclky retorted, "I am only shaking your hand since we beleive in one G-d."
"Repeat that!" said the boothkeeper.
"I am shaking your hand, for we beleive in the same G-d." said Binyamin.
"Ha! did everyone hear that!" he shouted, "He believes in our G-d! A Jew believes in our G-d. U wait and say that to our King!"

The man took Binyamin to the castle of the Bukharian Imirand summoned him to the king.

"Ur Honor" said the man.
"Yes?" answered the king.
"This Jew over here accepts our G-d!" exclaimed the boothkeeper.
"Ha! Thats a first! Do u beleive in Allah our G-d? the King inquired.
"I was shaking this man's hand and told him that we beleive in one G-d. That is what I said."
"Answer me!" demanded the Imir, "Do you beleive Allah our G-d?"
"No! I beleive in the G-d of the Jews, there is only one G-d and i am not afraid of a King of mere Flesh in Blood, my body is only temporary, and I will not switch my faith even if you take it away from me! Your G-d is False!"

Shortly after, Binyamin was taken home where he wait for his verdict to be finalized. In the meantime, the Jews of the city were collecting funds to rescue this Jew, however all to no avail. Binyamin was promptly sentenced to Death by the gallows. During his time at home, one could not see an inkling of fear or emotion on Binyamin's face. He was confident and placid as ever. When he was taken to the castle o his death sentence, he was asked one last time if he believed in the G-d of the Jews. Without a flinch he answered, I only believe in the G-d of the Jews and will never acknowledge your lowly idols!" With this, he was put to death.
He is now a legend in our long and treacherous Bucharian history. We must see the bloodshed of our ancestors and not forget there steadfast faith in Hashem and reward there endurance with commemoration and continuing the torch Bucharian Jewry of Torah and Mitzvot.