What the findings reveal
A recent survey conducted by Pew Research Center across 36 countries, including over 55,000 respondents, identifies Israel as a leading high-income country in terms of religious nationalism. With 9% of Israelis fitting the religious nationalist classification, the country showcases distinct dynamics of faith’s role in national identity, compared to broader global trends.
Why it matters
In contrast to other high-income nations like the US and Chile, whose religious nationalist rates stand at 6%, Israel reflects a unique intertwining of Judaism and governance. This positions the country as a place where national identity and religious identity overlap significantly, emphasizing the inclusive nature of Jewish societal integration.
The details
Surveyed individuals met the criteria for religious nationalism by believing that the state’s predominant religion is integral to national identity. They also feel leaders should share this belief, mandate sacred texts into laws, and upon clashes, religious texts should prevail over majoritarian perspectives. Differences within Israel are noted, reflecting the diverse observance levels within its Jewish population. Importantly, Israel was the only high-income nation where a significant segment sees predominant religious belonging crucial to national identity.
Leadership and coalition dynamics
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu exemplifies balancing between religious interests and national governance, preserving alliances with ultra-Orthodox and religious parties. His tenure reflects a blend that accommodates religious values without necessitating Orthodox Jewish leadership, indicative of flexibility and partnership in policy making.
Public perception and identity
Israelis prioritized speaking Hebrew as part of national identity at 43%, slightly above the 34% who view Judaism similarly. The nation’s laws, influenced by its right of return policy, emphasize inclusivity and acceptance for global Jewry. The perception of religion influencing laws exists, though less so than one might expect, illustrating a complex dance between secularism and tradition.
The democratic Jewish state debate
When pondering Israel’s identity as both Jewish and democratic, 73% express confidence in this duality, highlighting a shared belief in the coexistence of faith with democratic values, although perspectives differ across religious lines within the country.
Evaluating religion and tolerance
Interestingly, 88% of Muslim respondents see religion as a force for tolerance, showcasing an understanding and an affirmation of peaceful coexistence among religious communities. Among Israeli Jews, 66% concur, reflecting a broader endorsement of religious coexistence in Israel’s multifaceted societal framework.
Constitutional Influences
As for the influence of religious law on governance, only a small proportion, 19% of Jewish Israelis, endorse heavy legislative influences from scripture. Yet, contemporary Israeli legislation confirms that historical roots and sacred texts continue to find a resonant voice echoed in the trust that religious pluralism sustains national unity and coexistence.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.