Israeli Lawyer Advocates for Gregorian Calendar Dominance to Prevent Confusion

Attorney David Shapira, a senior partner at Arnon Tadmor Levi and an expert in mergers and acquisitions, argues that Israel should primarily use the Gregorian calendar to avoid widespread confusion. While acknowledging the religious significance of the Hebrew calendar, Shapira, who is observant and a graduate of Yeshiva University, believes a unified dating system is crucial for practical and commercial reasons.

Shapira points out that the Hebrew calendar is already embedded in Israeli law, notably in the Knesset's Basic Law, which dictates election dates based on the Hebrew month of Cheshvan. However, he questions the inherent Jewishness of month names, which are Babylonian in origin, and emphasizes that the primary importance of any calendar lies in its ability to establish a universally agreed-upon system for order and commerce.

He draws parallels to the importance of standardized timekeeping, noting that differing time zones can cause logistical problems. Shapira suggests that while the Hebrew calendar has its place, particularly in religious life, its exclusive use in civil matters can lead to ambiguity, citing examples like the Ketubah (Jewish marriage contract) which traditionally only includes the Hebrew date, potentially causing issues if the exact time of signing is critical for legal or financial reasons.

Shapira, who himself celebrates his birthday and anniversary on both dates, receiving gifts twice, advocates for the mandatory use of the Gregorian calendar in civil life to prevent misunderstandings. He believes that while individuals can continue to observe the Hebrew calendar for religious purposes, a single, clear system for civil affairs would benefit society by ensuring everyone operates on the same timeline.