Ancient Practices of Shepherding and Farming Crucial for Israeli Land Security
Translated & summarized from Arutz Sheva by baba
An article examines the historical and strategic importance of farming and shepherding in Israel, tracing their roots from biblical times to modern settlements. It discusses rabbinic debates on raising livestock and highlights the crucial security role these communities now play in preventing land seizures and smuggling. The piece advocates for an integrated approach combining agriculture, animal husbandry, and security to strengthen Israel's hold on its land.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Farming and shepherding are historically and strategically vital for maintaining Israeli land, from biblical times to modern settlements.
- Modern Israeli farms and outposts play a critical security role, preventing land seizures across over 1.2 million dunams.
- Rabbinic authorities historically debated raising livestock in Israel due to potential damage to agricultural fields.
- The 'Moses Shepherds' Association,' blessed by Rabbi Kook, was established a century ago to promote organized shepherding.
- Historical events like the 'Tractor War' highlight the tension between religious observance and land security needs.
- An integrated approach combining agriculture, animal husbandry, and security is advocated for Israel's future.
The article explores the historical, halachic, and strategic significance of animal husbandry and agriculture in maintaining Israeli land. Drawing parallels from biblical narratives like Cain and Abel, it highlights how these practices, particularly sheep and cattle farming, have evolved from ancient times to modern Israeli settlements.
Historically, rabbinic authorities debated the permissibility of raising small livestock in the Land of Israel due to potential damage to agricultural fields. However, interpretations evolved, especially during the diaspora, suggesting the prohibition might not apply with the same stringency when most fields were not privately owned by Jews. The establishment of the 'Moses Shepherds' Association' a century ago, blessed by Rabbi Kook, marked a resurgence of organized shepherding, seen as complementary to farming and vital for settling the land.
In contemporary Israel, these farming and shepherding communities, often referred to as 'outposts' or 'farms,' play a critical security role. They are credited with preventing enemy encroachment and illegal land seizures across vast areas, estimated at over 1.2 million dunams, and also help thwart smuggling. This strategic importance is likened to the historical need to secure borders, emphasizing that where Israeli livestock graze, Israeli territory is solidified.
The article also touches upon historical instances where agricultural and settlement efforts were challenged, such as the 'Tractor War' of 1965, where kibbutz members were called upon to plow land on Shabbat to assert Israeli control against Jordanian claims. This event underscores the ongoing tension between religious observance and the imperative of national security and land settlement.
Ultimately, the piece argues for an integrated approach combining field agriculture, animal husbandry, security, and industry as essential tools for the advancement and security of Israel in its ancestral homeland, drawing lessons from both ancient traditions and modern challenges.
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