The Role of Israel in American Haredi Life

This article examines the role of Israel in the daily lives of American haredim in both Yeshivish and Hasidic communities. Evidence drawn from over 25 interviews with yeshivish and hasidic lay leaders, school administrators, magazine publishers, and community members presents a nuanced portrait of attitudes toward, and ideologies regarding, the State of Israel. Although historically and sociologically Zionism has been seen as a key issue distinguishing modern and haredi Jewish communities, this distinction may lie more at the level of ideological affirmation, rather than actual behavior, knowledge, or belief.