56–43: Knesset Advances Historic Limud Torah Law
In a move welcomed by many in the Torah world, the Knesset plenum on Wednesday approved the “Torah Study” Basic Law in its preliminary reading, formally recognizing Torah study as a foundational value of the Jewish people Israel. The bill passed by a vote of 56 in favor and 43 opposed • Read More
The proposed legislation states that “Torah study is a foundational value in the heritage of the Jewish people and a basic right…” It further declares that Israel, as a Jewish state, places supreme importance on encouraging Torah study and supporting those who dedicate themselves to long-term Torah learning, recognizing their significant contribution to the Jewish people.
The vote comes amid ongoing public debate surrounding the status of Bnei Yeshivah and the role of Torah study in Jewish life. According to reports, an earlier version of the bill included language equating the status of Torah scholars with those serving in the military, but that clause was removed prior to the vote.
Several coalition members voted against the legislation, including Likud MKs Dan Illouz, Yuli Edelstein, and Sharren Haskel, as well as Religious Zionism MK Moshe Solomon.
Following the vote, Deputy Minister and United Torah Judaism MK Meir Porush said that while Am Yisroel does not require legislation to recognize the value of Torah study, recent developments made such a measure necessary.
“Because of the ongoing campaign against Lomdei Torah in recent years, we found it necessary to advance this Basic Law,” Porush stated. He added that his party would continue working to defend the rights and status of those devoted to Torah learning.
Shas chairman Aryeh Deri described the vote as a historic step toward official recognition of the central role Torah plays in preserving the Jewish people throughout the generations.
“The Torah is the secret of our existence,” Deri said. “It is what has sustained the Jewish people throughout history. We will continue working until this legislation is completed and the honor due to Torah and its learners is fully recognized.”
For generations, Torah study has served as the spiritual lifeblood of the Jewish people, safeguarding Jewish continuity through every exile and challenge.
The advancement of this legislation is viewed by many as an important expression of the eternal truth that the Torah remains the foundation of Jewish existence.
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