Religious legislation is detrimental to Israel’s Jewish identity. There are a number of Jewish laws that are observed by virtually everyone. Some examples are circumcision, the Passover Seder and not publicly desecrating Yom Kippur. These traditions are upheld because they are part of our culture – and are not laws for the politicians to argue over. As soon as we bring the Torah into the political-legislative realm, the enriching dialogue between different parts of our societ

This article was published in Hebrew on Channel 2's mako website. This year, like every year, the Chametz law will provide rhetoric for politicians and media personalities from both ends of the political divide. One side will make its point in the name of freedom of choice, while the other side will argue for Jewish identity. This over-chewed squabble will make the headlines on the news talk shows until the holiday ends, when it will be put back into the mothballs. Until next

As expected, the Grocery Law, prohibiting groceries from opening on Shabbat unless the local municipality legislates otherwise, has brought about a backlash of municipal legislation allowing the opening of businesses on Shabbat. In other words, Interior Minister Deri’s bill has harmed the Jewish identity of the State of Israel. The State apparatus must be distanced from religious issues. Not only to enhance personal liberty, but also to allow Israel’s Jewish identity to devel