Israel's Jewish Identity Beyond Religion, Encompassing Security and Society
The article argues that Israel's Jewish identity must extend beyond religious study and opposition to progressive ideologies. It contends that true Jewish identity should be reflected in national security, settlement expansion, justice, economic policies, mutual responsibility, family, and community.
The author posits that a strong Jewish identity is the "।Archimedes' fulcrum" for the state, providing motivation and belief in the nation's potential. Conversely, a weak Jewish identity leads to leaders who doubt Israel's capacity to overcome challenges and resort to containment strategies, citing Yitzhak Rabin's justification for the Oslo Accords as stemming from a perceived national weariness.
The piece questions whether Jewish identity is solely defined by promoting Torah study and fighting progressivism. It asserts that national importance is integral to a Jewish state's identity, referencing a Midrash that criticizes those awaiting a great Torah without awaiting a kingdom, emphasizing that God's kingdom cannot be realized without a state.
Furthermore, the article links Jewish identity to robust security, criticizing parties that discuss Jewish identity without focusing on defense. It advocates for a stronger, more motivated military, suggesting measures like prohibiting mixed-gender combat units and women in combat roles, which it claims do not enhance security and harm female soldiers' well-being. It also emphasizes mutual responsibility, the imperative to rescue Jews, love for fellow Jews, and the commandment to settle the land, citing Ramban's prohibition against leaving land desolate. The author suggests settling Gaza and southern Lebanon for security benefits and highlights new settlements and dense construction as drivers of progress and potential solutions to housing costs.
The article further argues that Jewish identity necessitates a uncompromising fight against corruption and injustice within the legal system and other institutions. It calls for prioritizing Torah law as the guiding legal framework. Economically, it advocates for market liberalization while protecting vulnerable populations, referencing Rabbi Meir Bar Ilan's critique of Agudat Yisrael for prioritizing religious items over basic needs for refugees. Finally, it stresses the importance of connecting secular and religious Jews, acknowledging the contributions of secular founders, and strengthening the family and community as foundational to Jewish life.
