Former Knesset Speaker Argues "Chosen People" Concept Undermines Israeli Democracy

Former Knesset Speaker Avrum Burg argues that the traditional Jewish concept of being the "chosen people," while historically serving as a survival mechanism during periods of persecution, has become a dangerous ideology in modern Israel. He contends that this belief in inherent superiority, rooted in ancient prayers, fosters discrimination and justifies the subjugation of Palestinians.

Burg asserts that the notion of a "chosen people" is fundamentally incompatible with the principles of democracy, where all citizens are meant to be equal. He criticizes the Israeli government's policies regarding immigration, land allocation, and treatment of Palestinians as evidence of this inherent conflict, stating that Jewish individuals, regardless of their recent arrival, are treated as "owners" while Palestinians, even those with generations of history in the land, are considered "temporary guests."

He acknowledges that some interpretations of "chosenness" have historically emphasized responsibility for global betterment, but argues these have failed in contemporary Israel, where problematic interpretations are more prevalent and influential. Burg distinguishes between private religious belief, which he deems acceptable in a democracy, and the elevation of such beliefs into constitutional principles with state enforcement power.

To preserve Israeli democracy, Burg calls for a departure from the idea of Jewish supremacy, advocating for a shift from "chosenness" to civil equality and from separatism to cultural integration. He suggests drawing upon Jewish cultural elements that promote equality rather than superiority, citing the principle of treating the stranger as oneself as an example of a foundation for shared life.