American Jews are most acutely aware that we live among a Christian majority during the Christmas season.  We’ve even given the name “December Dilemma” to the phenomenon. 

How is it different living in Israel?  The soul of Israel beats to a Jewish rhythm, and this, I’m told, is a factor for many when choosing to make Aliya. 

This past week, I have enjoyed being in Israel—as a guest rather than a tourist—living among the citizens, as I celebrate the birth of my new grandson.  Here are a few of my observations:

• During the “Nine Days” leading up to Tisha B’Av, many refrain from eating meat.  Were we flying any other airline to Israel besides El Al (moot point, as currently no other airline is flying directly from the U.S.  to Israel), we would have needed to remember order meals that were both kosher and pescatarian. 
• Upon entering Israel, passport control asked me, “Purpose for your trip?”  I answered, “Birth of a grandson.”  Her response while handing me back my passport… “Mazel tov!”
• More than once, new parents in the U.S. are asked about circumcision and offered literature on the pros and cons.  In Israel, a brit milah on the eighth day is assumed.
• Many have the practice of not naming children prior to the brit or baby naming ceremony.  See my article from June 23, 2023.  In the U.S., the system is designed to establish the name and fill out the appropriate paperwork before leaving the hospital.  In Israel, it’s assumed that babies will leave the hospital without a name. 
• Observant Jews neither drive nor spend money on Shabbat, and new fathers in the U.S. might go hungry while hospital staff care for new mothers and babies.  My son-in-law was well-fed as a Shabbat guest in the Israeli hospital.
• Finally, if eligible for discharge from the hospital on Saturday morning, staying until after Shabbat ends is assumed.

Living in Israel can be hard, especially during wartime.  These are just a few minor ways in which living with the Jewish rhythm helps make it easier.