The Inherent Israeli Identity of the Jewish Diaspora: Bridging Gaps and Embracing Unity
In a thought-provoking piece that transcends geographical boundaries, Shay Szabo, a Juris Doctor candidate with deep roots in both Israel and the United States, challenges the conventional understanding of what it means to be Israeli. Her perspective is not just academic; it’s deeply personal and reflective of a broader conversation happening within the global Jewish community.
Understanding the Israeli-Jewish Connection
Szabo begins by exploring her own dual identity, having been born in Israel but raised in the U.S. Despite her American upbringing, she experiences a profound and inextricable link to Israel—a sentiment shared by many Jews worldwide. This connection, she argues, isn’t merely about citizenship or the physical act of living in Israel; it’s embedded in the very essence of Jewish identity.
Historically, Jews have always maintained a spiritual, cultural, and emotional bond with Israel. Long before the modern state was established in 1948, Jewish communities around the world have centered their religious and social lives on the memories of and hopes for their ancestral homeland. Terms like “Am Yisrael” (the people of Israel) underscore this deep connection.
The Role of Jewish Traditions and Holidays
The Jewish calendar itself is filled with references to the land of Israel. Major holidays such as Passover, Sukkot, and Yom Kippur are replete with rituals and prayers that evoke the history, struggles, and aspirations tied to Israel. These traditions serve as constant reminders of the Jewish people’s historical journey and their centuries-old ties to the land.
Szabo emphasizes that these observances are not just ceremonial; they are affirmations of a collective memory and a common future hoped for by Jews globally. The mitzvah of aliyah, or the call to return to Israel, further highlights this intrinsic bond, offering every Jew a legal and moral right to become an Israeli citizen.
The Psychological Divide Between Western Jews and Israel
Despite these deep-seated connections, many Western Jews still view Israel as somewhat alien—a distant land that is more an abstract idea than a tangible part of their Jewish identity. Szabo argues that this detachment is not only unnatural but also harmful. It plays into the hands of antisemites who seek to sever Western Jews from their Israeli roots, weakening solidarity among Jews worldwide.
Mainstreaming the idea that all Jews are inherently Israeli could counteract this divide. Recognizing that Israeli identity extends beyond geographic or political borders can strengthen global Jewish unity and resilience against external threats.
Case Studies: Voices from the Community
- David Cohen (New York): A lawyer who visits Israel yearly, Cohen expresses how each visit reinforces his feeling of belonging. “The moment I land in Tel Aviv, something within me clicks—it’s like coming home,” he shares.
- Rachel Mizrachi (London): A teacher whose grandparents emigrated from Israel. She integrates Israeli literature and history into her curriculum, aiming to instill a sense of Israeli identity in her students.
- Ethan Goldstein (Sydney): Active in Jewish-Australian groups promoting Israeli affairs, Goldstein believes strengthening these ties enriches his community’s Jewish life.
Actionable Steps Forward
To bridge the gap effectively, Szabo suggests several actionable steps:
- Educational Initiatives: Implement programs that teach about Israel’s history and culture from a young age within diaspora communities.
- Cultural Exchange: Encourage more programs that allow young Jews from different countries to visit Israel and vice versa, fostering mutual understanding and connection.
- Community Engagement: Create platforms where Jews worldwide can share their stories and experiences related to their Israeli identity.
- Political Advocacy: Support policies that encourage Jewish people worldwide to engage with Israel politically and socially.
Conclusion: A Collective Journey Towards Unity
Szabo concludes her compelling narrative by reiterating that being Israeli is an intrinsic part of being Jewish. This concept transcends physical presence or political boundaries—it is about embracing a shared narrative and responsibility. Whether one is sipping coffee in a café in Tel Aviv or celebrating Shabbat in Manhattan, every Jew is part of this ongoing story—a story of survival, resilience, and unbreakable bonds.
In embracing our inherent Israeli identity collectively, we not only honor our past but also pave the way for a unified and resilient future. As Szabo eloquently puts it, “Our strength lies not just in our shared history but in our shared commitment to keep the flame of our identity burning brightly—wherever we are in the world.”
