Controversial 'Rabbis Law' Returns to Knesset Plenum

What is the 'Rabbis Law'?

The 'Rabbis Law' is a proposed amendment to the Israeli Penal Law that would allow Orthodox rabbis to refuse to perform marriages or other religious services for people they deem unworthy, such as non-Jews, interfaith couples, or people who have converted to Judaism through non-Orthodox streams.

History of the 'Rabbis Law'

The 'Rabbis Law' was first proposed in 2010 by then-Justice Minister Yaakov Neeman. The bill was met with widespread criticism from both religious and secular Israelis, and ultimately failed to pass. However, the bill has been reintroduced several times since then, and is currently being debated in the Knesset plenum.

Arguments in Favor of the 'Rabbis Law'

Supporters of the 'Rabbis Law' argue that it is necessary to preserve the sanctity of Orthodox Judaism. They claim that Orthodox rabbis should not be forced to perform religious services that they believe violate Jewish law. They also argue that the law would protect rabbis from being sued by people who are denied services.

Arguments Against the 'Rabbis Law'

Opponents of the 'Rabbis Law' argue that it is discriminatory and would harm religious freedom in Israel. They claim that the law would allow Orthodox rabbis to refuse services to anyone they deem unworthy, including non-Jews, interfaith couples, and people who have converted to Judaism through non-Orthodox streams. They also argue that the law would set a dangerous precedent for other types of discrimination.

The Future of the 'Rabbis Law'

The 'Rabbis Law' is currently being debated in the Knesset plenum. It is unclear whether the bill will pass, but it is likely to continue to be a source of controversy in Israel.