Rabbi Yigal Levinstein Declares New Generation Will Transform Jewish Identity in Israel

Rabbi Yigal Levinstein, head of the Bnei David pre-military academy in Eli, spoke at the Tekuma movement's Right Conference on Thursday evening, emphasizing a historic strengthening of Jewish identity in Israel. He described the emergence of a new, young generation poised to reshape the Jewish people living in Zion, framing this as a continuation of the historic process of the return to Zion. Levinstein called for embedding Jewish values into state institutions and national decision-making, asserting that those who guide this authentic movement of the people will lead the future.

Addressing the impact of recent wars, Levinstein highlighted a growing connection between Torah study and national mission, particularly among the Haredi community. He noted a significant shift among young Haredim, whose national feelings are awakening like never before, citing that eight Haredi yeshivas have approached his academy to learn how to integrate Zionism with Torah. He praised the performance of Haredi IDF units, warning against disparagement that could alienate them, as they seek to connect with nationalism.

Levinstein also pointed to changes among IDF soldiers, recalling the late Ro'i Klein’s heroic act 20 years ago and noting that today, entire battalions recite the Shema prayer before entering combat zones. He declared this movement toward Jewish identity unstoppable. Concluding, he stressed that Israel’s state values must prioritize national and Jewish principles, including the value of victory as a core ethical code for the IDF. He differentiated between private and public Judaism, urging the state to adopt Jewish values beyond human rights to truly be a Jewish state.