The word Yisrael appears more than 2,000 times in the Hebrew Bible and approximately 450 times in Mishkan T’filah, our Reform Movement prayerbook. Sometimes Israel refers to a people, sometimes to a land. Often, the two are inseparable. This connection is woven into the very fabric of Jewish identity.
Our relationship with the land of Israel begins in Genesis, when God calls Abraham to a new land and promises it to his descendants as an everlasting covenant (Genesis 12:1–3, 7; 17:7–8). Abraham’s grandson Jacob later receives the name Yisrael, one who struggles with God (Genesis 32:25–29). His descendants become B’nai Yisrael, the Children of Israel. At Sinai, our covenant is deepened through the giving of Torah, which wasn’t given in the land of Israel, rather in the wilderness, a place belonging to no one, reminding us that all who choose to join their destiny with the Jewish people may share in our sacred covenant.
For Jews throughout the world, Israel is more than a geographical place. It is our ancestral homeland, an essential part of our collective history, identity, and future. Though we may live thousands of miles away, what happens in Israel matters deeply to us. Our destinies are inextricably intertwined.
This past Tuesday, Israelis went to the polls in extraordinary numbers, with voter turnout reaching 77.7 percent, the highest since 1999. Particularly significant was the record participation of Palestinian citizens of Israel, whose voices and votes may prove decisive in determining the country’s political future. 
Israeli citizens living abroad traveled home to cast their ballots, while Jews from the Diaspora, including friends of mine, traveled to Israel to volunteer and assist with election efforts. Their commitment reflects the profound connection between Israel and Jewish communities throughout the world, as well as our shared responsibility for its future.
Despite a deeply contentious political climate and sharply opposing visions for Israel’s future, millions of citizens participated in an election that proceeded without widespread violence or major disruption. The voting itself was a remarkable demonstration of civic engagement, even as allegations of electoral irregularities have subsequently generated controversy. At a time when democratic institutions around the world face growing challenges, this extraordinary participation is worthy of recognition and celebration.
Yet democracy is measured not only by the number of citizens who vote, but by a nation’s commitment to protecting the rights, freedoms, and dignity of all its people. As Israel’s political parties navigate the complicated process of forming a governing coalition, profound questions remain about the country’s democratic character, religious pluralism, equality, and prospects for peace.
For those of us who love Israel deeply, yet struggle with some of its government’s policies, this moment calls for thoughtful engagement, moral clarity, and enduring commitment. Our love for Israel does not require unquestioning agreement with its leaders. Rather, it calls upon us to remain engaged in shaping a future that reflects our deepest Jewish values.
The Reform Movement has issued a powerful statement that articulates my own hopes and concerns with remarkable clarity. I wholeheartedly embrace its message, particularly its insistence that our love for Israel demands continued engagement, even when we disagree with its leadership.
As the statement reminds us:
“Our love and commitment to Am Yisrael (the People of Israel) and Medinat Yisrael (the State of Israel) will outlast any election. If the outcome deepens our concerns, we will not step back, because Israel needs more from us now, not less.”
The statement acknowledges the anxiety and disappointment many North American Jews feel, while celebrating the vibrancy of Israel’s democracy. It also confronts the challenges facing religious freedom and equality in Israel, including the lack of legal recognition for marriages performed by Reform rabbis, attacks against Reform congregations, and the failure to implement the agreement establishing an egalitarian prayer space at the Western Wall.
Most importantly, it affirms our shared vision:
“We want what we have always wanted: an Israel that is Jewish, democratic, and pluralistic, and a peaceful resolution that guarantees security, self-determination, and dignity for both the Israeli and Palestinian people. Our partners in Israel need us to help them further that vision.” Joint statement of the Union for Reform Judaism, Central Conference of American Rabbis, and American Conference of Cantors, October 28, 2026.
I encourage you to read the complete statement, Israel’s Election and a Moment for Moral Courage. It speaks eloquently to our responsibility as North American Jews, not simply to observe events in Israel, but to remain actively engaged in helping shape its future.
Continuing the Conversation:
Understanding the complexities of Israeli society and politics requires thoughtful engagement with diverse perspectives. I encourage you to explore these resources and follow their work through their websites and social media:
The Shalom Hartman Institute offers outstanding scholarship, commentary, and educational resources exploring Israel, Jewish peoplehood, and the challenges confronting the Jewish world.
ARZA, the Association of Reform Zionists of America advocates for a democratic, pluralistic Israel and strengthens the relationship between North American Jews and Israel.
The Israel Religious Action Center (IRAC) works to advance religious freedom, civil rights, equality, and democracy in Israel.
The Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism (IMPJ) strengthens Reform Jewish life in Israel and promotes religious pluralism, tolerance, and social justice.
I also recommend an excellent post-election conversation featuring Rabbi Josh Weinberg, Vice President of the Union for Reform Judaism for Israel and Reform Zionism and Executive Director of ARZA, and Orly Erez-Likhovski, Executive Director of IRAC. This was recorded in Jerusalem the day after the election. Their discussion examines the results, possible governing coalitions, and what they may mean for Israel’s future:
Israel After the Vote: Who Won, What’s Next, and What Kind of Country Will Israel Be?
Rabbi Weinberg is also planning a webinar for Reform congregations, featuring key leaders who will offer their insights and perspectives once the election results and the path toward forming a new government become clearer. This will be an important opportunity to deepen our understanding of the evolving political landscape and its implications for Israel and the Jewish world. Watch for an announcement with further details.
To help further our understanding, I will teach a four-part class on Israel in the early winter, specifics will be announced shortly.
Our Covenant Continues:
The name Yisrael reminds us that wrestling with difficult questions has always been part of who we are. Our covenant does not promise a future free of struggle. It calls us to meet that struggle with courage, conviction, and hope.
Our love for Israel is rooted in an ancient covenant; our responsibility is to help ensure that its future reflects the highest ideals of our tradition. May we never lose faith in the possibility of an Israel that embodies the highest aspirations of our people, nor lose the courage to help bring that vision to life.
Shabbat Shalom!
Rabbi Sharon L. Sobel