Israeli Election Campaign Lacks Focus on Jewish Religion, Criticizes Ariel Sharfer

In a recent commentary, Ariel Sharfer criticized the current Israeli election campaign for neglecting the role of Jewish religion in state affairs. He argued that while politicians focus on security, judicial issues, peace, and national responsibility, they overlook the significant decline in respect for Jewish religious values, which angers many religious and ultra-Orthodox communities. Sharfer noted that none of the political parties include protecting Jewish religion as a key part of their platforms, signaling its diminished importance in their agendas.

Sharfer warned that this neglect could lead Israel to become a "state of all its citizens" rather than a Jewish state, causing spiritual anguish among Jews who long for the coming of the Messiah. He highlighted issues such as kosher certification, marriage laws, respect for synagogues, prayer practices, and the status of the Temple Mount as areas ignored by politicians. He also pointed out that even parties representing religious voters fail to address these concerns beyond topics like military conscription and conversion.

The commentary reflects a broader frustration with the political discourse, suggesting that Israeli democracy risks forgetting its Jewish identity. Sharfer concluded with a nostalgic reference to the unity at Mount Sinai and lamented the short memory and excessive compromise of the Israeli people. The piece was presented with satirical humor and is part of a daily series called "The Red Point" on the Srugim website.