Beyond Borders

On a day focused with a sense of purpose and solidarity, our group from Bergen County set out on a journey to Kerem Shalom, nestled at the very edge of Israel’s border with Gaza. This visit wasn’t just a mark on our itinerary; it was a step towards a deeper understanding and connection with a community that stands as a living testament to strength and unity at a time of war and adversity.

Kerem Shalom, with its tranquil grounds and warm smiles, carries the weight of history and the scars of terror, notably marked by the events of October 7. Yet, amidst this backdrop of tragedy and loss, the community’s spirit of resilience and determination to forge a path of peace and togetherness shines brightly, mirroring the indomitable spirit we’ve witnessed throughout our three-day journey.

What distinguishes Kerem Shalom, however, is its foundational commitment to a mixed community of religious and secular individuals. In a society often segmented by prescribed lines of belief and practice, Kerem Shalom emerges as a cultural and social oasis, a deliberate choice by its residents to not just share a postal code but to weave their lives together in a tapestry of mutual respect and understanding.

Our conversations with community members unveiled the beautiful, sometimes comical, ways they navigate their collective life. From decisions about communal amenities to the thoughtful hosting of diverse guests, each story highlighted a microcosm of negotiation, compromise, and above all, mutual respect that defines their daily existence.

In the heart of Kerem Shalom lies a profound respect for the individuality and authenticity of each member. This community is founded on the principle that engagement and integration do not equate to changing or indoctrinating one another. The interaction among members is characterized by an open exchange of ideas and values, where learning and inspiration flow bidirectionally without the intent to alter the core essence of the other. This approach fosters a space where everyone feels valued and heard, encouraging a deeper, more meaningful connection that is based on mutual respect and the recognition that everyone has something unique to offer. (While the Kerem Shalom model is profound, it’s important to note that integrating diverse religious and cultural backgrounds poses unique challenges that require thoughtful consideration. Nonetheless, in my opinion, this approach remains a remarkable blueprint for community living.)

Departing from Kerem Shalom, it became clear that the path to a thriving future for Israel’s Jewish community hinges on a deeper understanding and integration across its varied factions. This enclave of peace, thriving amidst broader regional tensions, demonstrates that true harmony is born from embracing and bridging our differences.

The uniqueness of Kerem Shalom’s inclusive ethos in the wider Israeli landscape highlights a significant gap—an urgent need for more profound engagement among diverse groups. To achieve national unity and communal vitality, it’s essential for these different strands of identity, belief, and tradition within the Jewish community to weave together more closely, recognizing that their collective strength lies in their diversity.