In the wake of the events of October 7, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) faces an urgent need to expand their pool of recruits to address the pressing security threats confronting Israel. This necessity has transformed the discussion about Charedi enlistment from a theoretical moral issue to an immediate military imperative. Addressing the concerns of the Charedi community while preserving their way of life is crucial for both national security and social cohesion.
To meet this need, Rabbi Betzalel Cohen proposed the establishment of a yeshivat hesder for Charedim, named Tiferet Bachurim (The Grandeur of the Bachurim). This initiative aims to replicate the success of the hesder yeshivot model, which has flourished over the past 50 years.
The hesder model has enabled religious individuals to serve in the army while continuing their Torah studies over a four-year period. The goal of Tiferet Bachurim, according to Cohen, “is not only to increase the number
of soldiers but also to enhance the unity of Am Yisrael and support the joint future of all segments of the Jewish population.”
Tiferet Bachurim aspires to provide Charedi young men with the opportunity to serve their country without compromising their religious commitments. The program will offer a unique combination of Torah study, professional development and military service. The four-year program will be structured as follows:
First Year: Intensive Torah study and preparatory courses that include physical and mental preparation for army service.
Second and Third Years: Active army service as combat soldiers, fostering camaraderie and discipline.
Fourth Year: Return to Torah study, completion of high school matriculation for those who need it, and further professional and vocational training.
Tiferet Bachurim will be led by Betzalel Cohen, a well-known rabbi from Jerusalem with a rich heritage and extensive experience working with the Charedi community. His involvement in vocational training programs, along with over a decade of experience at Hochmei Lev High School in Jerusalem, uniquely qualifies him to spearhead this initiative. Cohen’s commitment to finding a solution for Charedi enlistment was solidified after witnessing the events of October 7. He realized the necessity of providing a framework that allows Charedim to serve in the IDF without compromising their religious beliefs.
Joining Cohen in this endeavor is Rav Netanel Sharon, whose dedication and insight further strengthen the leadership team, along with Meir Halberstam. Together, they are committed to addressing the needs of Charedi young men who are increasingly aware of their responsibility to contribute to Israel’s security, despite the strict rulings of some rabbinic authorities against military service.
Historically, the integration of Charedim into the IDF has been fraught with challenges. Many Charedim do not fit easily into the standard army framework. Existing programs often focus solely on technological training, which, while valuable, does not address the comprehensive needs of Charedi recruits. Tiferet Bachurim aims to fill this gap by offering a holistic approach that includes Torah study, professional development and combat training.
As with many new initiatives in Israel, Tiferet Bachurim will not be eligible for government or IDF funding in its first year. They are seeking donations to support this crucial initial phase, with an estimated budget of $600,000 required to accommodate 40 students for the coming academic year. This funding will cover room and board, teaching staff, army preparation and all other necessary expenses.
Despite potential challenges, they are confident that this initiative will come to fruition. As Cohen has passionately stated, “This will happen, one way or another, sooner or later, it will happen.”
The establishment of a yeshivat hesder for Charedim, Tiferet Bachurim, represents a significant step towards uniting different segments of the Jewish population and addressing the urgent security needs of Israel. By providing a framework that respects and preserves the Charedi way of life while enabling military service, Tiferet Bachurim will contribute to the strength and unity of Am Yisrael.
As Cohen said, “Together, we can build a future where all Jewish men, regardless of their background, can serve their country with pride and dedication.”
Arnie Draiman is a philanthropic consultant helping people and foundations give their tzedakah money away wisely, efficiently and effectively for over 25 years. In addition, he consults to hi-tech start-ups and is an expert in social media marketing and promotion. He can be reached at [email protected]
