Biblical Tower of Babel Analogy Used to Criticize Exclusion of Women in IDF
Translated & summarized from Zman Yisrael by baba
An Israeli author uses the biblical Tower of Babel story to criticize the exclusion of women from certain military bases, citing an incident where a female officer was denied entry. The article argues that enforced uniformity, like that of Babel, is destructive and stifles diversity, contrasting it with true unity that embraces differences. The author shares her personal experience as a religious woman who chose military service, highlighting the tension between community expectations and individual paths. The incident at the base was eventually resolved, but the author sees it as a symbol of a larger societal challenge.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- A female officer was denied entry to an IDF base housing religious soldiers.
- The incident is compared to the biblical Tower of Babel, symbolizing destructive uniformity.
- The author criticizes calls to limit women's military roles in the name of integration.
- The article argues that true unity embraces diversity, unlike enforced uniformity.
- The author reflects on her personal journey as a religious woman serving in the IDF.
- The officer was eventually allowed entry after intervention from a superior.
The article draws a parallel between the biblical story of the Tower of Babel and contemporary issues within Israeli society, specifically concerning the exclusion of women in certain military contexts. The author uses the biblical narrative, where God disperses humanity for their unified ambition, to critique a growing trend of enforced uniformity that stifles diversity. This trend is exemplified by recent incidents where women, including female officers, have faced restrictions or outright denial of entry into military installations that also house religious soldiers.
The author expresses deep concern over calls to limit women's roles in the military, particularly in the context of integrating Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) men into service. She argues that while integrating different populations is important, it should not come at the expense of women's presence and rights. The piece recounts a personal experience where a female officer was denied entry to a base housing religious soldiers, a situation that evoked the "Tower of Babel" feeling of unity being replaced by destructive uniformity.
The narrative then shifts to a more personal reflection, detailing the author's own journey as a religious woman who chose to enlist in the IDF and serve as an officer, despite societal expectations. She recounts her decision to join the military as a response to growing exclusion and her desire to forge her own path while still feeling supported by her community. The article highlights the tension between communal belonging and individual autonomy, questioning the value of a community that requires individuals to diminish themselves.
The story concludes with the officer's firm but measured response to the soldier denying her entry, emphasizing the operational readiness of the systems she was there to check. After initially being turned away, she is eventually allowed entry after a superior intervenes, suggesting a mistake was made. The author reflects that her deviation from the expected path is not a mistake but the forging of a new way forward for herself and others.
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