“We are equally as responsible for the position and views as those living in the country. That we are Jews too.”
The Interviewee – Alan Goldsmith (Born 1953) Temple Beth El of Great Neck Administrator, Queens, NYC.
In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general?
“Personally the existence of the State of Israel is my connection to the ancient history of our people. It brings me close to my past ancestors, the biblical account of our people and the PROUD kingdom of Israel. The State of Israel is proof positive of our relationship with G-D. The climax of over two thousand years of being apart from our homeland.”
Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?
“Yes, it’s the ancestral home of the Jewish People.”
Do you affiliate yourself with a specific denomination in Judaism?
“I’m a Traditional Jew, light candles for Shabbat, say prayers every morning and evening. Keep Passover and the the High Holidays. As well as fasting five times a year. I don’t keep Shabbat and don’t eat kosher, but I don’t eat pork.”
Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict)?
“Only to a small degree. Part of a collective consciousness.”
In your opinion, what is the main thing Israelis fail to understand about the reality of being Jewish outside of Israel?
“That we are equally as responsible for the position and views as those living in the country. That we are Jews too.”
How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?
“Getting better, I was very excited when recently women are being allowed to worship at the main part of the Kotel. The Orthodox community have been favored too long by the State. Israel is a Jewish State in both Faith and Democratic values.”
In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?
“YES, We must ALWAYS be there to take care of OUR own.”
Have you ever been to Israel? if you have, can you summarize your impression from the Israeli reality?
“Yes , twice. It was A moving experience. The first time, I must be honest and tell you I kissed the ground upon my landing.”
Can you tell us a bit about the Jewish community in your hometown? Is it organized? Are there community activities?
“NYC, Obviously very strong and open.”
Is there a question you feel should be added to the project’s questionnaire?
“Something about, should Jews ever truly criticizes the actions of the Israeli state or The Jewish people in the larger world community.”
