Israeli Knesset Committee Approves Basic Law Recognizing Torah Study as a National Value
The Knesset committee approved a Basic Law declaring Torah study a fundamental value of Israel, a key demand of ultra-Orthodox parties. The law passed 10-4 amid heated debate over its constitutional clarity and social implications. Supporters see it as protecting Torah learners, while opponents warn it privileges yeshiva students over soldiers. The law now moves toward its first reading in the Knesset.
הידיעה ב-6 שורות · תקציר של baba
- Knesset committee approved Basic Law recognizing Torah study as a core Israeli value.
- The law passed 10-4, backed by ultra-Orthodox parties in coalition negotiations.
- Opposition criticized the law for equating yeshiva students with IDF soldiers.
- Deputy AG stressed need to clarify law’s purpose and societal impact.
- Supporters say it protects Torah learners from unfair penalties.
- Debate included concerns over budgetary and legal implications, dismissed by proponents.
The Knesset Constitution, Law and Justice Committee approved a Basic Law recognizing Torah study as a fundamental value of the State of Israel. The legislation, which passed with 10 votes in favor and 4 against, is one of two key bills demanded by ultra-Orthodox parties in exchange for their support of other coalition laws. The law states that the State of Israel views Torah study as a core value rooted in the heritage of the Jewish people and the state.
The committee debate was intense, with opposition members arguing that the law equates yeshiva students with IDF soldiers, raising concerns about its constitutional clarity and implications. Deputy Attorney General Avital Sompolinsky emphasized the need to clarify the law’s purpose before advancing it, noting that it stems from a perception of imbalance regarding the ultra-Orthodox community’s role in Israeli society and raises questions about rights and obligations.
Supporters, including MK Yossi Tayeb, argued the law provides a clear constitutional identity and a legal framework to protect Torah study alongside other fundamental values. MK Itzik Goldknopf highlighted the law’s intent to protect Torah learners from punitive measures, reflecting concerns that they have been unfairly penalized. Opposition MK Merav Michaeli criticized the law as politically motivated and discriminatory, asserting it privileges male Torah students over other laws.
Practical implications were also discussed, with MK Vladimir Beliak questioning potential budgetary impacts and justice balances, which MK Moshe Gafni dismissed, stating the law does not affect soldiers’ rights or benefits but solely affirms the value of Torah study. The law now prepares for its first reading in the Knesset plenum.
מוזכרים
אותו אירוע, כפי שכל מערכת דיווחה עליו בנפרד. פתחו כמה דיווחים כדי להשוות מה כל מערכת מדגישה, ומה היא משאירה בחוץ.
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