The Forward published two pieces this week, each a continuation of a discussion on Israel’s Jewish identity. One of the contributors was Reform’s Rabbi Rick Jacobs, who strongly criticized “the Orthodox establishment”, calling it an “unholy alliance” of religion and politics. Though he never names the organization he’s attacking, we’re assuming it’s the Rabbanut.
As much as Jacobs makes the case for pluralism, ultimately his piece is lacking substance, because while Jacobs bemoans the current situation, he offers no concrete steps for change. His vision for a future Israel as “a Jewish state that truly embodies the values and vibrancy of all Jewry” is lovely (if not a bit fanciful), but his only suggestion thus far is to hold a “global conversation.” That’s not much to work with.
And therein lies the real problem. Reform Judaism doesn’t have a stronghold in Israel. The vast majority of practicing Jews in Israel are Orthodox, and – this is based purely on anecdotal evidence and observation – the secular Jews who do attend services on holidays feel more comfortable in Orthodox synagogues because a) it’s what they’re used to and b) services are in Hebrew and there’s often no sermon.
Were the Rabbanut to be dismantled tomorrow, something Jacobs would celebrate, Jewish life in Israel would still be predominantly Orthodox in nature.
So if Jacobs wants to change things, a better tactic than criticizing the establishment would be to establish a critical mass of Reform Jews in Israel. Without the numbers, how can Jacobs hope to have an impact on domestic Israeli policy? Jacobs – and his movement – must begin heavily promoting aliyah among their congregants and members if they aim to influence Jewish life in Israel.
Criticizing from outside may be important within the Diaspora community, but how closely are those inside Israel paying heed to a Diaspora leader’s words?
Once upon a time Reform Judaism was anti-Zionism; this week, Rabbi Jacobs proclaimed that “My love for Israel is at the core of my Jewish identity”, a powerful statement and a significant change. Perhaps the next stage in Reform’s relationship to Israel see large numbers of practicing Reform Jews moving there. Without that, Rabbi Jacobs and Reform don’t stand a chance – in Israel, that is.
