The terms Ashkenaz and Sefarad are found in the Bible, but most likely refer to areas of present-day Turkey and Armenia, respectively. How did they come to signify Germany and Spain? Why did the Jews of these two lands develop distinct customs and liturgies? Why do Jews of Middle Eastern origin often identify as Sephardim even if their ancestors never lived in Spain? Listen to Lawrence Schiffman address these questions and others. (Audio, 1 hour and 18 minutes.)
Read more on Lawrenceschiffman.com: http://lawrenceschiffman.com/ashkenazim-sefardim/