Don’t Be a Jew More Than the Jewish

Three years ago, after a formal event on sustainability, I spoke to someone I thought he was open-minded. I told him that some young people in my country were interested in Hebrew and Jewish culture, and I asked, “Where can we go with this? How can we help?” He answered with a short phrase I will never forget: “Don’t be a Jew more than the Jewish.”

This phrase has many meanings, and to me, it bothered me. It left me wondering: have Jews become a symbol of insult in our language and culture? What seemed like a casual comment had a sharp edge. It discouraged curiosity and learning, turning interest in another culture into something suspicious. The meaning of “Don’t be a Jew more than the Jewish” also carries an anti-Semitic tone.

I and others like me could have used our passion to build bridges and strengthen relationships. We could have helped show that there are citizens open to Jewish culture, welcoming Jewish or Israeli visitors, and even promoting tourism as a way to connect people. Instead, the comment shut down the possibility, showing that what is called “normalization” or “peaceful relations” often exists only on paper.

This phrase reminded me that words are never neutral. They can stop learning or encourage it. They can put up walls—or build bridges. Curiosity is not betrayal, and learning is not disloyalty. Open minds can take a single word, even one meant to discourage, and turn it into an opportunity to understand, connect, and grow. “Don’t be a Jew more than the Jewish.” A short phrase, full of meaning. It felt sharp and uncomfortable, but it taught me an important lesson: we must keep exploring, asking, and learning—without fear, without shame, and with open minds.

I also want to add a piece of advice. If you saw one of your young people with a real passion and talent in this field, don’t discourage them—support them and let them reach their potential. We are all like in one boat, and together, we can all reach our destination.