Survey Finds Half of Israeli Reservists Report Religious Decline Post-War
Translated & summarized from Makor Rishon by baba
A survey of Israeli reservists who served in the recent war indicates that about 50% have experienced a decline in religious observance, with 98% reporting reduced commandment observance. The study, presented at a conference, also found 58% reported negative impacts on family functioning, though only 10% felt a decline in faith. Experts discussed increased domestic violence and challenges to religious practices like mikveh immersion, while noting that many reservists reported strengthened faith but practical difficulties.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Approximately 50% of Israeli reservists reported a decline in religious observance after serving in the recent war.
- 98% of those experiencing religious decline cited a decrease in commandment observance, while 58% reported family functioning issues.
- Only 10% of reservists surveyed indicated a decrease in their faith, with some reporting strengthened belief.
- Experts at a conference discussed increased domestic violence among security forces and challenges to religious practices.
- The survey suggests reservists struggle with practical religious observance and adapting to post-war life, not necessarily with faith itself.
A recent online survey conducted among reservists who served extensively in the last war revealed significant religious and spiritual strain, with approximately 50% reporting a decline in their religious observance. Of those experiencing a religious decline, 98% noted a decrease in commandment observance, while 58% reported a negative impact on family functioning. However, only 10% felt a decline in their faith.
The findings were discussed at a conference organized by Makor Rishon and Tzomet in Jerusalem. A panel on religious erosion amid the war featured Rabbi Chananiel Etrog, Rosh Yeshiva of Sderot; Dr. Michal Prince, an expert on relationships in the religious community; and Shai Orim, a psychotherapist and couple's therapist.
Dr. Prince highlighted a dramatic increase in domestic violence among security forces' couples, describing it as a concerning phenomenon that requires sensitive handling. She also addressed questions about marital intimacy, including mikveh immersion and physical contact, noting that the war had disrupted established routines and support systems for couples.
Rabbi Etrog spoke about the erosion of values and modesty, criticizing the IDF for not adequately respecting shared living arrangements and discussions. He emphasized that while the commitment to defending Israel is paramount, the erosion of trust between men and women, exacerbated by military situations, is a fundamental issue.
Shai Orim presented survey data, correlating religious difficulties with other negative impacts, such as family dysfunction and mental health issues. He noted that while many reservists reported strengthening their faith, they struggled with practical religious observance and adapting to a new reality post-war, indicating a challenge in living according to previous standards rather than a crisis of belief.
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