Meaning: This quote by the late Israeli writer Amos Oz touches on the significant influence of Orthodox leaders in Israeli politics. For over 30 years, Orthodox leaders have played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of Israel, often being the deciding factor in the formation of coalitions and the governance of the country. To fully understand the implications of this statement, it is important to delve into the historical and political context of Israel, the role of Orthodox leaders, and their impact on the country's governance.

Israel's political system is characterized by a multi-party parliamentary democracy, where coalitions are often necessary to form a government due to the proportional representation electoral system. In this complex political environment, Orthodox leaders, particularly those representing the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) community, have emerged as key power brokers due to their ability to deliver a significant number of seats in the Knesset (Israeli parliament). This has given them substantial influence over the formation and stability of governments.

The Orthodox Jewish community in Israel is diverse, consisting of various groups with differing religious and political ideologies. However, the Haredi parties, such as Shas and United Torah Judaism, have been particularly influential in Israeli politics. Their ability to secure a considerable number of Knesset seats through their organized and cohesive voter base has made them indispensable in the coalition-building process. As a result, successive Israeli governments have had to engage with Orthodox leaders and accommodate their policy priorities in exchange for their support.

The influence of Orthodox leaders in Israeli politics has been most pronounced in matters concerning religious affairs, such as state funding for religious institutions, exemptions from military service for yeshiva students, and control over religious institutions, including marriage and conversion. These issues have often been contentious and have sparked debates about the proper balance between religious and secular influences in Israeli society. The Orthodox parties' ability to leverage their political clout to advance their religious and communal interests has been a source of tension and debate within Israeli society.

Amos Oz's statement also alludes to the broader impact of Orthodox leaders on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the pursuit of peace. The reference to "hawks and doves" suggests that Orthodox leaders have not only shaped domestic politics but have also influenced Israel's approach to security and peace negotiations. Their positions on issues such as settlements, territorial concessions, and the status of Jerusalem have often diverged from those of more secular and left-leaning political factions, contributing to the complexities of Israeli decision-making in the realm of foreign policy.

The enduring influence of Orthodox leaders in Israeli politics has sparked discussions about the nature of the country's democracy and the appropriate role of religious institutions in governance. Critics argue that the outsized influence of Orthodox parties has led to policies that disproportionately benefit their constituents while infringing on the rights of secular and non-Orthodox Jewish communities. These concerns have fueled calls for electoral and political reforms aimed at reducing the Orthodox parties' leverage and promoting greater pluralism and inclusivity in Israeli politics.

In conclusion, Amos Oz's quote encapsulates the enduring influence of Orthodox leaders in Israeli politics, highlighting their pivotal role in shaping coalition dynamics and governance decisions. The impact of Orthodox parties extends beyond religious affairs, influencing domestic and foreign policy matters. Understanding the dynamics of this influence is crucial for comprehending the complexities of Israeli politics and the ongoing debates about the relationship between religion, state, and democracy in the country.