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What is a kibbutz – All about the Israeli commune

There is a special form of coexistence in Israel: the kibbutz. This Israeli community has shaped the country for over 100 years. It has a fascinating story to tell.

A kibbutz is a community based on cohesion and shared values. This form of settlement is unique and has changed considerably over the years.

Today there are around 268 kibbutzim with around 117,000 inhabitants in Israel. They make up only a small part of Israeli society. Nevertheless, they are of great importance.

Kibbutzim were founded as an attempt to create a classless society. Over time, however, they have changed considerably. Their role in modern Israel is different today.

The most important findings

  • Kibbutzim are unique communal settlements in Israel
  • There are currently 268 kibbutzim with around 117,000 inhabitants
  • The kibbutz movement originated before the establishment of the State of Israel
  • Originally, kibbutzim were based on collectivism and communal ownership
  • Today, many kibbutzim have been modernized and partially privatized

What is a kibbutz

A kibbutz is a special type of community in Israel. These settlements are based on equality and cooperation. Kibbutzim have strongly influenced Israel’s development.

Definition and origin of the term

“Kibbutz” comes from the Hebrew word “Kwuza”, which means “group”. The first kibbutz was established in 1909 in response to immigration problems.

Today there are around 270 kibbutzim in Israel. Around 130,000 people live in these communities.

Basic principles of the community

In a kibbutz, all members share resources and responsibilities. Work is a central value of the community. Property belongs to everyone.

In the past, kibbutzim concentrated on agriculture. Today, many are active in industry and services.

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Secular and religious kibbutzim

There are secular and religious kibbutzim. Religion plays a minor role in secular communities. Religious kibbutzim emphasize Jewish traditions.

These differences influence the way of life, education and work. Nevertheless, all kibbutzim celebrate the Sabbath together on Friday evening.

Characteristic Secular kibbutzim Religious kibbutzim
Religious practice Less pronounced Strong focus on Jewish traditions
Education Secular education Religious education integrated
Work structure Flexible Takes religious observances into account
Community life Focus on social activities Religious festivals at the center

History and development of the kibbutz movement

The kibbutz movement had a significant impact on Israel’s history. Jewish pioneers created this unique form of Israeli commune. They laid the foundations for a fascinating development.

Emergence before the founding of the State of Israel

The kibbutz movement emerged at the beginning of the 20th century. The first kibbutz, Deganja A, was founded in 1909. By 1947, there were already 268 kibbutzim.

These socialist communities offered European immigrants a new home. They also contributed to the reclamation of the land.

Kibbutz economy

Golden age during the founding of the state in 1948

With the founding of Israel in 1948, the kibbutzim experienced their heyday. They were central to agriculture and the defense of the young state. In 1951, the movement split when social democratic kibbutzniks broke away.

Change in modern Israel

Today there are 273 kibbutzim with around 120,000 inhabitants. Many have been modernized and partially privatized. The kibbutz economy has changed dramatically.

Despite challenges such as ageing, kibbutzim remain important for Israeli society. They are adapting to modern times.

Year Event
1909 Foundation of the first kibbutz Deganja A
1925 Foundation of the first umbrella organization Chever ha-Qvūzōt
1947 Number of kibbutzim increases to approx. 268
1963 Foundation of the umbrella organization of the Federation of the Kibbutz Movement
1999 Unification to form today’s Ha-Tnūʿah ha-Kibbutzit

Social structure and organization

Kibbutzim are unique socialist communities. The principle of equality characterizes all areas of life. In the general assembly, members make decisions by consensus.

The kibbutz movement has existed for over 100 years. It comprises around 130,000 people in 275 kibbutzim. Its motto is: “Everyone gives to the best of their ability, everyone receives according to need.”

Socialist community in the kibbutz

  • Production and work
  • Consumption
  • Political-administrative order
  • Education

This structure strives for a society without class distinctions. Childcare and education are communal tasks. There are still gender-specific differences.

Movement Proportion of kibbutzim
TAKAM About two thirds
Kibbutz-ARZI About one third

The kibbutzim have changed over time. Their development comprises four phases: Pioneer, Construction, Consolidation and Privatization phases.

These changes show the adaptation to modern challenges. The kibbutzim are constantly adapting to new circumstances.

Economic orientation of the kibbutzim

The kibbutz economy has changed considerably. Of the original 275 kibbutzim in Israel, many have adapted their economic orientation. Today, around 126,000 people live in kibbutz settlements.

This makes up 3.7% of Israel’s Jewish population. It is a decrease of 7.8% since the founding of the state.

Agricultural production

Agriculture remains an important part of the kibbutz economy. Modern kibbutzim use advanced farming methods and technologies. This enables them to increase their yields.

Despite a declining population, kibbutzim continue to contribute to Israel’s agricultural production. Their contribution is considerable.

Modernization and privatization

Many kibbutzim have become modern villages with their own infrastructure. The trend towards privatization is changing the traditional community structure. Some kibbutzim have opted for partial or complete privatization.

This adaptation makes them more economically competitive. It reflects the transformation of Israeli society. The kibbutz movement is flexible in modern times.

FAQ

What exactly is a kibbutz?

A kibbutz is a special type of community in Israel. It is based on equality, joint work and shared responsibility. Many kibbutzim have developed from agricultural communities into diverse units.

Where does the term “kibbutz” come from?

“Kibbutz” comes from the Hebrew and means “assembly” or “meeting”. It describes a close-knit community that lives and works together.

How do secular and religious kibbutzim differ?

Secular kibbutzim focus on socialist ideals without religious practice. Religious kibbutzim integrate Jewish traditions into their everyday life. This influences the way of life and values of the respective communities.

When were the first kibbutzim established?

Jewish pioneers founded the first kibbutzim at the beginning of the 20th century. They served as a practical solution for land settlement in Palestine.

How has the role of kibbutzim changed in Israeli society?

Kibbutzim flourished during and shortly after the establishment of Israel in 1948, playing an important role in agriculture, defense and politics.In recent decades, many kibbutzim have undergone a transformation. This includes privatization, economic diversity and adaptation to modern conditions.

How does decision-making work in a kibbutz?

Traditionally, decision-making is based on grassroots democratic processes. Important decisions are made in the general assembly. Many modern kibbutzim have adapted their structures and also use representative democracy.

What role does agriculture play in modern kibbutzim?

Many kibbutzim have expanded their activities. Today, the kibbutz economy often includes agriculture, industry, technology and tourism. Some kibbutzim are leaders in agricultural innovation and production.

What does privatization mean for the traditional kibbutz model?

Privatization has changed the strictly collective model in many kibbutzim. This can include private property, differentiated salaries and outside labor. These changes challenge the original kibbutz ideals.At the same time, they allow for better economic adaptation to modern conditions. The kibbutz model continues to evolve in order to remain relevant.

Simon Lüthje

I am co-founder of this blog and am very interested in everything that has to do with technology, but I also like to play games. I was born in Hamburg, but now I live in Bad Segeberg.

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