Kosher-certified draft dodgers

Why do the draft-dodgers in this new Ayin Tova Cartoon proudly display kosher certifications? It is as if being an IDF draft evader has become a new type of identity, and wearing that is like a badge of honor!

There exists in Israel today a convoluted reality. The same rabbinic authorities empowered to assure that the food we eat is kosher – certifying it as acceptable and fit for a devout Jewish diet – are also the very authorities who are aligned with the exemption of many thousands of young men from protecting the Jewish people and country. Tragically, this ironic reality of trying to escape from responsibility contradicts the Torah and Jewish tradition.

Rabbinic authorities associated with many Haredi kosher certifications are intrinsic members of communities that stand against the State of Israel, against modernity and working for a living as a value, and against serving the Jewish nation in a fighting (or even active volunteer) capacity to help defend and protect from neighboring enemies with evil intent. These are not only extreme positions, they are also a severe departure from age-old and fundamental Jewish values.

It is “proper and fit” (kosher!) for Jewish food consumers to reflect upon how so many kosher-certifying Rabbis and organizations are also supporting and endorsing evaders of a shared national burden. Internalizing this may lead individuals to avoid relying upon anti-Zionist rabbinic authorities. That sounds like a sensible decision.