“I do not currently live in Israel and therefore do not feel comfortable judging Israel’s military and political actions.”
The Interviewee –Vernon Kurtz (Born 1951), Rabbi at North Suburban Synagogue Beth El Highland Park Il. I was born in Toronto, Canada.
In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general?
“It has great importance as the homeland of the Jewish people revived in our time – that is home in a physical, metaphysical and spiritual sense.”
Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?
“Yes – as a responsible Jew who is fortunate enough to live in a time when there is a State of Israel.”
Do you affiliate yourself with a specific denomination in Judaism? What is your view regarding the dominance of the Orthodox denomination in Israel religious establishment?
“I am a Conservative rabbi. The Orthodox monopoly in Israel is not good for religion in general and Judaism in particular.”
Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict)?
“I do not currently live in Israel and therefore do not feel comfortable judging Israel’s military and political actions.”
In your opinion, what is the main thing Israelis fail to understand about the reality of being Jewish outside of Israel?
“That Jewish identity can exist in a democratic and pluralistic form.”
How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?
“Mixed – there are times when Israel takes the Diaspora into consideration and sometimes when it does not.“
In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?
“In conjunction with the local Jewish community Israel does have a responsibility to help in the defense of other Jewish communities.”
Have you ever been to Israel? if you have, can you summarize your impressions from Israel?
“Many times – a great feeling of being at home – including owning an apartment in Jerusalem.“
Can you tell us a bit about the Jewish community in your hometown?
“Chicago is an active involved Jewish community with many synagogues, day schools and a strong Federation system.“
If you could ask the Israeli readers of this project a question, what would it be?
“Is there a way for us to really enact the phrase ‘We are One.'”
