The Jewish community in Iran claims to have descended from those who fled ancient Israel after the Babylonian exile and were welcomed by Cyrus the Great. Still the largest Jewish community in the Middle East outside of Israel, Iranian Jews have a rich history that is celebrated by Jews around the world during the Purim holiday. Considered “People of the Book,” Jews, like Christians and Zoroastrians are granted special provisions according the Constitution. They are allowed to practice their religion and are given a representative in the Iranian parliament. Nonetheless, they regarded as second-class citizens with limited rights in the court of law.