Akuperma says, “If they wanted kollel students to join the “over the table” workforce, they would abolish conscription so they could take jobs in the mainstream economy without serving in the army.” It sounds as though you agree with Hiddush, Mr. Regev, and others who accuse them of using kollel as a draft dodge. What would you say to my son, who spent 2+ years in kollel, *then* did his compulsory service, and *then* enrolled in a teaching degree program?
Akuperma adds, “As it is, the law [on observing halakha in the IDF) if observed only if there are hareidim with lots of protectksia making vocal complaints.” During my regular and reserve service (1982-2003), I often reminded my commanders to uphold these things (kashrut, negiya, time for davening, Shabbat, etc.) by making firm but polite requests. I got my way every time because no commander will balk when halakha *and* IDF rules are in agreement. And I’m not haredi.
And a technical note to GoldersGreener: the law in Israel speaks of only 2.5 years of compulsory service. The extra 6 months was tacked on because the army was short on personnel. These months are paid for at the career soldiers’ rate and is given to these inductees in demobilization bonuses and the like. If so, reverting to 2.5 years would do more than spread the military burden more equitably; it would save a ton of money.
And a final swipe at those who wax nostalgic for the Czar and the ghetto because Jews can’t be trusted to observe Torah on their own: ?? ????? ????? ????