Rob Eshman, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief , TRIBE Media/Jewish Journal. Born in 1960 in Los Angeles. Lived in Israel 1984-1986. Editor of Jewish Journal since 2000.
In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general?
“The same as I would have to a close family member or loved one. I want them to be safe, to do their best, to contribute to making the world better for all.”
Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?
“I do. It is not my home, but it feels like an extension of home, and I care deeply about my friends and family there, and about all those who call it home.”
Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict)?
“Less than the people who actually decide and implement them, more than your average TV viewer. I think that comes not only from my bond to Israel, but also from a sense that my fate, and the fate of all Jews, is in some ways tied to that of a Jewish state.”
In your opinion, what is the main thing Israelis fail to understand about the reality of being Jewish outside of Israel?
“That the vitality of Judaism and Jewish life depends on its variety. The Diaspora and the homeland all contribute to the success and continuity of the Jewish people. And our fates are intertwined.”
How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?
“I’m not aware Israel has one official policy; it depends on the Israeli and it depends on which Diaspora. I can only speak to my experience as an American Jew. The relationship is sometimes like that of a person to his ATM card. Sometimes it’s like a lobbyist to a senator. Sometimes it’s like a teenager to his parents, seeing how far he can go before he’s cut off. Sometimes it like a celebrity to a fan, basking in adulation. Sometimes it’s like teammates in the midst of a big game.”
In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?
“Yes. All Jews do. I also believe Israel, as a member of the family of nations, has an obligation to defend and help all communities in distress, as best as it is able.”
Have you ever been to Israel?
“A terrible place to relax, but a great place to vacation. Inspiring, exciting, relentless, engaging, profound and exasperating.”
If an Israeli tourist should ever come across your hometown, which experience should he/she not miss?
“She should sit at a cafe on the Venice Boardwalk and speak to as many people as possible, letting them know she’s from Israel. Then she should write about those conversations for the Jewish Journal.”
