“Israel and its people are much better than its politicians and political system. I am impressed over and over again by the initiative, determination, creativity, and deep caring of so many Israelis”

The Interviewee- Jonathan Woocher (Born 1946) President, Lippman Kanfer Foundation for Living Torah. Grew up in suburban Long Island, attended Jewish summer camp, chose to become an academic in the field of Jewish studies, moved over to a career in Jewish education and most recently, as a foundation executive.

In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general?

“For me personally, the existence of Israel as a Jewish state means that as a people, we have the opportunity to try to construct a collective life that is inspired by and embodies Jewish values and sensibilities. Although this can be done to some extent in the Diaspora as well, seeking to do so in a situation where Jews constitute a majority and enjoy primary responsibility for the character of social, political, cultural, and economic life represents a unique opportunity and challenge. In addition, for the Jewish people as a whole, having a sovereign Jewish state provides a lifeline for Jews who face danger or discrimination. Although these are certainly not the only reasons for aliyah, we know the human price that was paid when there was no Israel.”

Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?

“Yes.”

Do you affiliate yourself with a specific confessional division in Judaism? What is your view regarding the dominance of the Orthodox division in Israel religious establishment?

“I identify with Conservative Judaism, but am in many ways post-denominational in my approach to Jewish life. Orthodox domination of Israel’s religious establishment, and worse, of the political system, is an embarrassment for Israel (the only democratic country where Jews do not enjoy full religious freedom), a barrier between Israel and Diaspora Jewry, and a detriment to the development of Jewish spiritual life in Israel.”

Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict)?

“Morally responsible, no. Disturbed morally by some of its actions, yes. (And proud at other times.).”

In your opinion, what is the main thing Israelis fail to understand about the reality of being Jewish outside of Israel?

“That one can live a very full Jewish life outside of Israel and that we are not disappearing.”

How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?

“What policy? I don’t see any evidence of a consistent and considered policy, just lots of lurching around without real direction.”

In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?

“Yes, but done thoughtfully, without arrogance, and with due respect for those Jewish communities.”

Have you ever been to Israel? if you have, can you summarize your impression from the Israeli reality?

“Yes, many times. Happily, Israel and its people are much better than its politicians and political system. I am impressed over and over again by the initiative, determination, creativity, and deep caring of so many Israelis. I worry, though, that the rise of anti-democratic ideas is driving deep wedges into the society and could result in a society that I, as a Jew, would find difficult to admire and respect.”

Can you tell us a bit about the Jewish community in your hometown? Is it organized? Are there community activities?

“A mix of Jews who are actively engaged in one or another form of Jewish activity and those who, while acknowledging their Jewishness, do not express that Jewishness actively or regularly.”