Hasidic Judaism and the Jewish Population in Israel: Percentage and Impact
Hasidic Judaism has a significant presence in the Jewish population of Israel, especially over the past few decades. This article aims to explore the approximate percentage of the Jewish population in Israel that identifies as Hasidic, backed by relevant data and analysis.
Overview of Hasidic Judaism
Hasidic Judaism, often associated with a revival of traditional Jewish mysticism and a lifestyle often centered around strict adherence to Jewish laws and customs, has been a prominent religious movement within the Jewish community for centuries. In recent times, the Hasidic community has grown in size and influence, particularly in Israel.
Historical Context and Growth in Israel
The influx of Hasidic Jews from various Eastern European countries, particularly Ukraine, Hungary, and Romania, began after World War II and formed one of the largest—and fastest-growing—communities in Israel. This wave has continued over several generations, contributing to the current demographic landscape of Israel.
Election Data and Analysis
To assess the approximate percentage of the Jewish population in Israel that is Hasidic, we can look at some electoral data. In the most recent election, the United Torah Judaism (UTJ) party, known for representing Ashkenazi Hasidic and other Ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) communities, secured 7 out of 120 seats in the Knesset. This translates to a rough estimate of 5.83% (7/120) of the Jewish non-Arab party seats, which, accounting for the total Jewish population, suggests an even smaller percentage.
CRUCIAL ASIDE: UTJ is an alliance of two groups. While both groups have some representation in the Hasidic community, UTJ aligns with a coalition that also includes non-Hasidic communities. Assuming a roughly even split between these groups, approximately 3.2% (7/220, where 110 is for non-Arab Jewish parties) might better estimate the Hasidic community's share of the Jewish population in Israel.
Demographic and Social Impacts
The growth of the Hasidic community in Israel has had various impacts. These include significant changes in the demographics of towns and cities, particularly in the north and center of the country. Hasidic communities are known for their strong adherence to tradition, which includes a focus on religious education for young boys, often leading to lower educational attainment rates in other areas.
Moreover, the demographic changes have significant implications for Israeli politics. Religious parties, including UTJ, play a crucial role in coalition negotiations, often demanding concessions from other parties in return for their support. This has led to a situation where the political landscape of Israel is heavily influenced by the interests of these communities.
Conclusion
The influence and presence of the Hasidic community within the Jewish population of Israel are considerable, though exact percentages can vary depending on the method of calculation. By examining electoral data and understanding the broader context, we can gain a clearer picture of the community's impact on Israeli society.