State and Religion Democracy and Judaism

Jewish state – what does it mean in terms of religion? Mainstream Zionism: National-secular - yet Jewish State. Inherent contradiction between "Jewish“ and "Democracy"? Non separation between state and religion.

Religious bodies for official functions Religious law in specific areas –Marriage/Divorce Burials Religious educational system makes part of public education State finances religious matters Public observance of Sabbath and dietary rules (Kashrut).

Origins and Legal dimensions The Status Quo agreement 1947 The exclusive status of Orthodox Judaism The Supreme Rabbinate Sephardic-Ashkenazi Religious courts for civilian and religious matters Non-Civic jurisdiction over matrimony Role and composition of the Supreme Court

Compromise and Ambiguity 1948 Declaration of Independence "placing our trust in the 'Rock of Israel' Status of Halacha The absence of constitution 1958 the Rufeisen case  ->"who is a Jew“ – by nation or religion? ->1962 Supreme Court verdict against Rufeisen 1969 Shalit case  ->1970 Ammendment to Law of Return 1980 Law on the Foundations – "Israel heritage" Russian and Ethiopian Olim

Political dimensions Religious political parties – Role and split Post 1967 Growth and impact of religious fundamentalism The status of the Holy Places in Jerusalem – liberalism versus security. Struggle over general duty of military service Growing hold of Orthodox education