Birthright Israel

If you’re wandering through the streets of Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, you’re guaranteed to run into at least one or two groups of young Jewish tourists from across the world all experiencing Israel for the first time. Though Israel is rich in tourism, what sets this ten-day trip to Israel apart is that it’s all completely free. Seems too good to be true? Think again. 

Thanks to a group of philanthropists, Birthright Israel has provided free trips to over 750,000 participants from 68 countries. The trip aims to help reconnect eligible participants with their Jewish heritage and inspire a return to Jewish pride and continuity.  

Big Ideas

1. Israel is central to building Jewish identity for many young Jews.
2. Birthright trips have been successful in creating strong ties between Diaspora Jews and the Land and State of Israel.

Essential Questions

1. What does a program like Birthright Israel teach us about Jewish peoplehood? Is Jewish peoplehood important?
2. Is Birthright Israel (bringing non-Israeli Jews to Israel for free) a worthy investment for the State of Israel?
3. Is it important for non-Israeli Jews to connect to the Land of Israel?

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