Between military–society and religion–military relations: different aspects of the growing religiosity in the Israeli defense forces

Abstract

The growing religiosity in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in recent years is discussed by employing the broader lens of changes to the organization's overall manpower. First, the authors will indicate the dynamic and changing make-up of those serving in the IDF, in terms of both the socio-demographic characteristics of conscripted soldiers, and the motivation of individuals enlisting in the IDF. Second, it is demonstrated how a window has opened in the IDF, especially in combat units and command roles, for a growth in religiosity as a result of the gradual increase in the number of conscripts affiliated with the Zionist national-religious population.