Israeli Elections Are About National Identity, Not Politics, Author Argues

An opinion piece argues that the upcoming Israeli elections are not about typical political issues like security, the economy, or territorial disputes, but rather about the fundamental identity and soul of the Jewish nation. The author contends that superficial campaign slogans and political spin distract from the core existential questions facing Israel.

The article asserts that the elections are a critical juncture for how the Jewish people will express themselves publicly and fulfill their collective purpose. It draws parallels to historical Jewish experiences, including the Exodus from Egypt, receiving the Torah, and returning to the Land of Israel, suggesting that the current moment is as significant as any since the state's founding in defining the nation's future.

Furthermore, the piece dismisses common election themes, stating the elections are not about Prime Minister Netanyahu personally, nor about the October 7th massacre, nor solely about security or military conscription. It also argues against the idea that the elections are about achieving 'peace' or expanding settlements, claiming these are either settled issues or secondary to deeper concerns.

The author criticizes the focus on 'democracy' as promoted by certain groups, suggesting it is a guise for imposing a judicial dictatorship and that those who view the people themselves as the problem are not genuinely interested in democracy. The piece also touches on foreign funding aimed at influencing the nation's character and undermining Jewish sovereignty.

Ultimately, the article concludes that the elections are fundamentally about the state's identity, its character, and its future, encompassing religious observance, Torah study, and the integration of Jewish values into all aspects of life. It calls for strengthening Jewish national and religious values to ensure a 'kingdom of priests and a holy nation.'