Educators Urged to Connect Torah to Israeli Statehood Amid Elections
As the Israeli school year begins amidst a heated election campaign, Rabbi Dr. Otniel Menatzer, the national supervisor for rabbis in religious state schools (Hamed), is calling on educators not to shield students from politics but to use it as an opportunity to explore the connection between Torah and the life of the state. Menatzer argues that instead of shutting out the political discourse, schools have a valuable educational chance to deepen the understanding of how Torah relates to life.
He challenges the notion that Torah and spirituality belong solely in study halls, separate from public and state affairs. Drawing from the philosophy of Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook, Menatzer asserts that in a Jewish state, Torah has relevance in all spheres, including the military, economy, and government. He cites Rabbi Zvi Yehudah Kook, who stated that the idea of rabbis not engaging in politics is a "Christian notion," and that Israeli statehood derives its true value from its holy source.
Menatzer emphasizes that the Torah is not detached from reality but serves as a compass for the nation and the state. He points to the Rambam's (Maimonides) monumental work, "Mishneh Torah," which includes extensive sections on laws pertaining to the Sanhedrin, justice, leadership, kings, and warfare, viewing the Torah as a complete constitution for a sovereign people in its land.
The article highlights the late Rabbi Chanan Porat, a former paratrooper, Gush Emunim founder, and Knesset member, as an embodiment of this integration. Porat saw his role in the Knesset as a way to implement Torah values in Israeli reality, exemplified by his private bill that became the "You Shall Not Stand Idly By Your Neighbor's Blood" law, translating a biblical commandment into civil law requiring citizens to assist those in danger.
Menatzer concludes by encouraging students to look beyond the election noise and, inspired by Rabbi Porat, to recognize the privilege of living in an era where Torah is connected to life, building the state, and sanctifying God's name. He wishes everyone a fruitful year of learning and growth.
