Law, State, and Religious Authority

A thoughtful look at how Charedim relate to secular law, the Israeli government, the court system, and the concept of Dina D’malchusa Dina. This section also discusses participation in elections and political roles within a secular state.

Why Don’t Charedim Support Official State Recognition of Reform or Conservative Judaism?

To the modern observer, it may seem unfair—even intolerant—that Charedim oppose the official recognition of Reform or Conservative Judaism by the State of Israel. After all, aren't we all one people? Why not recognize all streams of Judaism equally?

Why do Charedim oppose state-run conversions or giyur through the army?

Conversion to Judaism—giyur—is not a symbolic act, a social statement, or a path to citizenship. It is an eternal, binding covenant with Hashem. And as with any covenant, there are sacred terms.

What is the Charedi approach to participating in national government offices or taking political roles within the State of Israel?

At first glance, it may seem contradictory: If the Charedi world opposes the ideology of secular Zionism and does not view the State of Israel as the true fulfillment of Jewish sovereignty, why do some Charedim participate in its political system?

Do Charedim believe in civil disobedience for Torah causes?

Yes — Charedim absolutely believe that when Torah is under threat, we have not only the right but sometimes the obligation to resist. And if that resistance requires nonviolent civil disobedience, then so be it.

How do Charedim view secular Jewish leadership — are they seen as “resha’im” or simply misled?

The Charedi world does not paint all secular Jewish leaders with a single brush. We do not jump to call anyone a “rasha” lightly.

What is the Torah View on "Dina D'malchusa Dina" (the Halachic Rule to Follow the Law of the Land)?

The concept of Dina D'malchusa Dina—“the law of the land is the law”—has often been misunderstood and misapplied, especially in the context of the State of Israel. For the Torah world, Dina D'malchusa Dina does not mean that any secular government can legislate laws for Jews to follow.

3 True stories that illustrate the deep conflict between the Israeli Supreme Court and halacha.

In the mid-1990s, the Israeli Supreme Court ruled against the Chinuch Atzmai school system, the independent Charedi education network founded by the Gedolei HaDor under the guidance of the Chazon Ish and Rav Aharon Kotler zt”l.

What is the Charedi view of the Israeli Supreme Court?

The Charedi world sees the Israeli Supreme Court not just as a legal institution—but as a spiritual battleground. While many Jews view the court as the highest expression of democracy and justice, Charedim view it as a system built on values foreign to the Torah, often in direct contradiction to it.

Do Charedim believe that secular governance in Eretz Yisrael is part of Hashem’s plan — or a challenge to it?

The Charedi worldview understands that everything that happens in the world is by Hashgacha Pratis, Divine Providence. Whether uplifting or painful, whether holy or profane, nothing occurs outside the will of Hashem. This includes the rise of a secular government in Eretz Yisrael.

What Is the Charedi View on Voting in Israeli Elections?

At first glance, it may seem contradictory: the Charedi community often voices strong opposition to the ideology behind the secular State, yet it turns out to vote in high numbers. Why? The answer lies in the distinction between participating in a system and endorsing it.

Is living under a secular Jewish government better or worse than being under a non-Jewish one?

On the surface, it may seem obvious: Of course it’s better to live under Jewish rule than under a foreign one. After all, aren’t Jews our brothers? Wouldn’t a Jewish government understand our customs, speak our language, and allow us to live more freely as Torah Jews?

What’s the Torah’s View on Liberalism?

"Liberal values" — as used in the modern West — include things like freedom of expression, tolerance, gender equality, personal autonomy, and non-judgmentalism. These ideals sound noble. But Torah Judaism does not judge ideals based on feelings or trends. It judges based on emes.

What is the Torah’s view on democracy?

Democracy, as we know it today — a government chosen by the people, based on majority rule — is not a concept found in the Torah.

What is the Chareidi View of the State of Israel’s Government — Is It Considered a Legitimate Authority?

From a Torah standpoint, legitimate rule over the Jewish People requires a foundation in Torah. As the Torah states in Devarim 17:15, a king must be chosen by Hashem, through a navi, and accepted by the people.