Identity

WHO IS A JEW? VIEWPOINTS OF ISRAELI JEWS

A comprehensive study examines the attitudes of Jews in Israel regarding the question “Who is a Jew?”

WHO IS A JEW? VIEWPOINTS OF ISRAELI JEWS

There are signs of pressure to change the Law of Return but change to so foundational a law should be raised and considered only in a framework of broad-based discourse respectful of the Diaspora Jewish communities. There should be awareness of the fact that change to the Law could prove detrimental to significant populations that identify with Israel and regard themselves as Jewish.

  • So long as the criteria for aliyah remain unchanged, we should prepare for a continued rise in the share of Israelis whose Jewishness is not recognized in all corners and try to reduce the friction arising from this situation.
  • Knowledge should be disseminated in Israel to counter negative attitudes toward Diaspora Jewry – attitudes stemming from major differences in how Jewish identity is understood. (Knowledge should also be disseminated to Diaspora Jewry for the same reason.)
  • Act to implement a solution for those who wish to marry in Israel but whose Jewishness is not recognized by the Chief Rabbinate (alternatively, one must take into account that there will be a gradual and significant decrease in the rate of official marriages conducted in Israel).
  • Efforts should be made to strengthen and diversify the presence of holidays and festivals in the Israeli public sphere, and to strengthen non-religious Jewish identity, as a partial response to conflicting attitudes regarding the components of Jewish belonging.(A detailed discussion of, and rationale for, the recommendations appear at the end of the report)
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