Get ready, get ready! If you thought Israel was a place with only one type of person, you're about to discover a whole world! There's something in the Israeli air, perhaps it's the eternal sunshine or the ancient land, that produces an unimaginable variety of humanity. So let's dive in, with a pinch of humor and a generous spoonful of accuracy, into the rich social fabric of this small-big country.
- Secular (Hilonim): Meet "the salt of the earth" at its best - those who live a life free from religious commandments. You'll find them dancing at a trance party in the desert, drinking beer at a Tel Aviv pub, or discussing sociology in a Jerusalem coffee shop. They are the majority, and they are as diverse as a good hummus menu. Some enjoy the days off that religious holidays provide at work, but don't always keep kosher or observe Shabbat. Most of them are true Zionists.
- Traditional (Masortim): A bit to the right of the secular. These are people who maintain tradition and faith, but generally don't view it as a binding law for every detail of their lives. You'll find them in synagogues on Friday evenings and holidays, celebrating Mimouna with enthusiasm, and loving the blend of old and new. They are generally hospitable and excellent cooks.
- Religious (Dati'im): Here we enter a world of more complete observance of commandments. There are many streams and sub-streams among them:
- Religious Zionists (Kipot Srugot - "Knitted Kippahs"): These are people who see a combination of Torah and work, military service, general education, and involvement in Israeli society. They are fervent patriots, and this combination sometimes creates amusing dilemmas (how to stay modest on a field trip with girls?).
- Hardal (Haredi-Dati Leumi - National Religious-Haredi): This is a group that tries to combine the Haredi world, which emphasizes Torah study and strict observance of commandments, with the Religious-Zionist world, which emphasizes involvement in state life, military service, and secular education. Imagine someone who wants to live according to strict Torah laws but also be an active part of Israeli society and contribute to it. This is a unique combination to Israel.
- Haredi (Ultra-Orthodox): "The black-clothed guys," as they are sometimes called (at least jokingly), but even here there are huge differences! They dedicate their lives to Torah study and meticulous observance of commandments. You'll find among them:
- Lithuanian (Litaim): Those who mainly advocate Torah study and tend to be less inclined towards Hasidic characteristics.
- Hasidic (Hasidim): Here we enter a world of "courts" (Hatzarot) and Rebbes (Admorim) (important rabbis considered community leaders). Each Hasidic group has its own melodies (mostly melodic music without words, or with words from religious texts), distinct black attire (suits, hats, etc.) and customs. They dance and sing as part of their religious worship, but it's important to note that their music originates entirely from the world of Torah, and therefore the lyrics (if any) and themes are often repetitive and focus on matters of holiness and reverence for God.
- Sephardic (Shas): Jews of Middle Eastern and North African descent, many of whom have become Haredi in recent years and have combined Jewish law with ancient customs and liturgical poems (piyutim).
- Atheists: "Oh my God, there is no God!" - Yes, there are also those, and they live peacefully (more or less) alongside everyone else. Sometimes they even become activists against religious coercion, because, well, you need a little action.
- Neturei Karta: Those who will insist on telling you they are "against the Zionist state" while living within it. They are the extremists of the extremists, and they are known for their extreme views against the existence of the State of Israel, and for not leaving their neighborhoods except for public protests (where they are usually dressed in traditional, but not "colorful" in the festive sense, attire).
- Arabs: The largest non-Jewish population. They are equal citizens (though there are many social-economic challenges), some speak fluent Hebrew (and even local slang), and some live in traditional communities. Among them are:
- Muslims: The majority, with mosques, muezzin calls, and lots, lots of hummus.
- Christians: It's important to know that there are Arab Christians, who are an integral part of Israeli Arab society and live in ancient communities in Jerusalem, Nazareth, and other places. In addition, there are other Christian communities in Israel, such as Protestant Christian communities (including Mormons), Coptic Christians, Armenians, and more, who have come from all corners of the world. All of them have beautiful churches and celebrate Christian holidays.
- Druze: The loyal people. A unique community with a secret religion, traditional dress, and immense respect for the Israeli army (in which most men serve). They are known for their warm hospitality and breathtaking views in their northern villages.
- Bedouin: Formerly nomads, most of whom now live in villages and towns. They are known for their traditional hospitality, desert stories, and a never-ending supply of sweet tea. They have a rich heritage and a unique way of life.
- Circassians: A small but fascinating ethnic group that originated in the Caucasus. They have their own language, culture, and spirited dances. They mainly reside in two villages in the north.
- Baha'is: A relatively young religion, centered around unity and peace. They have breathtaking gardens in Haifa and Nahariya, and also in Acre, which are pilgrimage sites. It is important to note that the Baha'is have been severely persecuted in the Muslim world, and Israel is considered the global spiritual center of their faith, which highlights its role as a refuge for persecuted communities.
- Refugees and Migrants: Israel, like many countries, also takes in refugees and asylum seekers from various countries, mainly from Africa. In addition, there are many migrant workers who come from countries like Thailand, the Philippines, China, and Eastern Europe, and integrate into the labor market in various fields.
- And others: International students, tourists who never go home... In short, expect every color, shape, and scent!
The Jews - From Mainstream Movements to the Farthest Extremes
Let's start with the Jews, the overwhelming majority, and even here, make no mistake - there's no such thing as "one kind of Jew." There are endless shades, and that's what makes it interesting!
And then there are the extremes - because in Israel, even extremism has a place of honor:
The Minorities - A Diversity You Won't Find Anywhere Else
But wait, Israel isn't just Jews! There's a spectacular mosaic of ethnic and religious groups living (usually) in surprising harmony, alongside social challenges that exist in every modern democracy:
Not Apartheid, But a Vibrant Democracy (With All Its Problems)
So for all those who are quick to accuse Israel of apartheid or racism, without understanding the complexity: let's make one thing clear - Israel is a vibrant, noisy, and sometimes a little crazy democracy, but it is a democracy. There is freedom of expression, free elections (believe me, sometimes you'll feel there are too many of those...), an independent judicial system, and all citizens, regardless of religion, race, or gender, are entitled to full rights.
Are there challenges? Absolutely. Are there social tensions? Definitely. Is there inequality? Like in every country in the world. But these are challenges of a modern democratic society, not of an oppressive apartheid regime. People live side by side here, work together, argue together, and love together.
So if you are considering Aliyah (immigrating to Israel), or just trying to understand this complex and fascinating place, know that you are coming to a place where you will find yourself surrounded by humanity in all its shades, and that, ladies and gentlemen, is a fascinating life lesson.
By DG
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