Yehoshua Pfeffer: 'The army is not ready for real Haredi participation' (18 Questions, 40 Israeli Thinkers)
Aug 6, 2024
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Yehoshua Pfeffer, a prominent Haredi social thinker and activist, shares insights on the challenges surrounding the Haredi draft in Israel. He discusses the complexities of integrating Haredi citizens into military service while navigating tensions between religious beliefs and civic responsibilities. Pfeffer also explores the relationship between Judaism and democracy, questioning whether Israel should be a religious state. His reflections on identity, Messianism, and the need for coexistence highlight the ongoing societal debates within modern Israel.
Yehoshua Pfeffer emphasizes addressing the trauma of secularization within Jewish communities to foster meaningful theological discourse.
The podcast highlights the complexities surrounding Haredi participation in the IDF amidst recent societal pushes for equality in military service.
A hopeful outlook is presented on Israel's future, focusing on youth involvement and integration of diverse beliefs for a cohesive society.
Deep dives
Addressing Secularization and Trauma
The podcast emphasizes the necessity of confronting the unprocessed trauma associated with secularization within Jewish communities. It highlights how, for centuries, significant figures often disregard concepts like religiosity and meaning-making, which are essential in today's discussions. This initiative aims not just to provide information but to foster serious theological conversations that delve deeply into diverse theological thought. The goal is to help audiences understand the complexities of these themes rather than simplifying them, ultimately promoting a richer comprehension of theology and its implications on Jewish identity.
Diversity of Perspectives on Israel
A new series titled '18 Questions, 40 Israeli Thinkers' aims to explore various nuanced viewpoints surrounding critical issues related to Israel. This includes gathering thoughts from a spectrum of thinkers, including those from the Haredi community, to reflect on the complexities of Israeli identity and the socio-political challenges faced today. The discussions are designed to present a diversity of opinions, emphasizing the importance of disagreeing and engaging with different perspectives. Ultimately, the intention is to provide listeners with a broader understanding of the present-day stakes involved in Israel's socio-political landscape.
The Haredi Draft Controversy
The podcast explores the contentious issue of drafting Haredi Jews into the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) in light of recent Supreme Court rulings. There is a strong push from various segments of society to address perceived inequalities regarding military service across different societal groups, including the Haredim. This is particularly pertinent given the long-standing exemptions based on religious study that have characterized Haredi participation in Israeli military duty. Through the examination of these dynamics, listeners gain insight into the broader implications for Haredi identity and its relationship with Israeli statehood and society.
Judaism vs. Democracy in Israel
In discussions about the role of democracy within Israel, the podcast emphasizes that while democracy is an important mechanism, Judaism holds a fundamental place in defining the country's identity. It contends that the Jewish essence of Israel is paramount, with Judaism being the source from which Israeli identity flows, rather than a mere background element. The host and guest engage in a discourse about how other nations, such as the United States and England, have faced challenges that question the strength of democratic principles. This perspective encourages listeners to rethink the balance between Jewish values and democratic governance as they relate to nation-building in Israel.
Hope and the Future of Israel
The conversation reflects a hopeful outlook on Israel's future, particularly in light of the nation’s resilience and unity observed during times of conflict. The guest expresses optimism stemming from the strong participation of Israeli youth in defense efforts, suggesting a significant connection to their Jewish identity. Despite acknowledging the tumultuous landscape and various challenges, he believes these experiences can lead to a more cohesive society that integrates diverse beliefs and communities. Ultimately, this hopeful disposition drives the conversation about navigating both present obstacles and the long-term vision for a united and thriving Jewish state.
We're taking a week off from our main podcast, but we want to share with you an episode of our new podcast, 18 Questions, 40 Israeli Thinkers Subscribe to on Spotify or Apple Podcasts to catch the latest episode every Monday.
The Israeli government’s draft of Haredi men is no simple matter—but Yehoshua Pfeffer has some ideas for moving forward.
Rabbi Yehoshua Pfeffer is a Haredi social thinker and activist intimately involved in Haredi affairs. He heads the Iyun Institute—which operates programs and publications in the Haredi space—is the founding editor of Tzarich Iyun journal, and serves on the executive board of Netzah Yehuda, which serves Haredi soldiers in the IDF.
While also teaching as a professor at Hebrew University’s law school, he is the rabbi of Ohr Chadash in Ramot Bet, Jerusalem. Yehoshua’s life is guided by his convictions. Now, he sits down with us to answer 18 questions on Israel, including the Haredi draft, Israel as a religious state, Messianism, and so much more.
This interview was held on July 2. Here are our 18 questions:
As an Israeli, and as a Jew, how are you feeling at this moment in Israeli history?
What has been Israel’s greatest success and greatest mistake in its war against Hamas?
What do you look for in deciding which Knesset party to vote for?
Which is more important for Israel: Judaism or democracy?
Should Israel be a religious state?
Do you think the State of Israel is part of the final redemption?
Is Messianism helpful or harmful to Israel?
Should Israel treat its Jewish and non-Jewish citizens the same?
Should all Israelis serve in the army?
Now that Israel already exists, what is the purpose of Zionism?
Is opposing Zionism inherently antisemitic?
If you were making the case for Israel, where would you begin?
Can questioning the actions of Israel’s government and army — even in the context of this war — be a valid form of love and patriotism?
What do you think is the most legitimate criticism leveled against Israel today?
Do you think peace between Israelis and Palestinians will happen within your lifetime?
Are political and religious divides a major problem in Israeli society?
Where do you identify on Israel’s political and religious spectrum, and do you have friends on the “other side”?
Do you have more hope or fear for Israel and the Jewish People?
