Who Are the Haredim? Inside the Most Ultra-Orthodox and Controversial Jewish Sect

The Haredim, or ultra-Orthodox Jews, are among the most influential and controversial groups within Israeli society. Their strictly “conservative” lifestyle and unwavering adherence to Jewish law (Halakha) make them a formidable religious and political force. They resist openness to the outside world, often becoming a source of continuous social and political tension.

In this report, we will examine the nature of this sect, its beliefs, origins, areas of presence, political influence, its opposition to Israeli military service, and why Israeli politicians frequently turn to them when forming governments.

Who Are the Haredim?

The term Haredim is derived from the Hebrew root “H.R.D.,” meaning “the devout.” It refers to Jews who adhere to a strictly traditional way of life. This sect emerged in Eastern Europe in the 18th century as a reactionary movement against the modernization trends that were sweeping Jewish communities at the time.

The Haredi movement was influenced by various schools of thought, most notably the Hasidic movement, which originated in Poland and Lithuania, and the non-Hasidic school, which was prominent in Hungary and Germany. The Hasidic movement was founded by Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, who lived in Ukraine in 1802. Over time, it expanded significantly in Israel, becoming one of the most prominent branches of the Haredi community by the late 20th century.

The presence of Haredim in Palestine dates back to the British Mandate era, particularly between 1919 and 1929. The Haredim are divided into different ideological factions, including the Lithuanian (Litvish), Hasidic, and Sephardic groups, with many supporting the establishment of Israel. However, some oppose it, such as Neturei Karta (Guardians of the City), a faction founded in the mid-1930s by Rabbi Amram Blau (1894–1974). This movement is known for its staunch rejection of Israeli policies, including refusing Israeli identity cards and renouncing Israeli citizenship.

Neturei Karta’s opposition to Israel stems from religious beliefs that hold that God exiled the Jews due to their sins and that they must await divine intervention and repentance before returning. To them, the establishment of Israel is an act of rebellion against God. Neturei Karta members reside in Jerusalem, London, and New York, with their numbers in Israel ranging between 5,000 and 10,000. They reject government funding, refuse to participate in Israeli elections (Knesset), and recognize the Palestinian people’s right to independence.

While the majority of Haredim reside in Israel, a significant number live in the United States. Each Haredi faction has its unique stance; some reject democracy as incompatible with Jewish law and strongly oppose military service.

Today, the Haredim have their own judiciary institutions in Israel, known as the Haredi Rabbinical Courts, which handle disputes, personal status laws, and religious rulings issued by their rabbinical leaders.

The Haredim hold negative views of other religions, cultures, and ethnic groups, often distrusting non-Jews. They are easily identifiable by their distinctive appearance—long beards, untrimmed side curls (payot), and traditional black coats with wide-brimmed hats. Women in the community maintain strict modesty and, in some cases, wear a face-covering veil known as frumka.

What Is the Size and Political Influence of the Haredim?

The Haredim constitute approximately 17% of Israel’s Jewish population, with their numbers reaching 1.2 million by 2020. Due to their high birth rates (around 6% annual growth), they are projected to exceed 20% of Israel’s Jewish population by 2028.

This demographic shift has made the Haredim a powerful voting bloc in Israeli elections. Haredi political parties, such as Shas and United Torah Judaism (UTJ), play a crucial role in coalition governments, typically supporting administrations that offer them economic and educational benefits.

Where Are the Haredim Concentrated?

Haredi communities are primarily concentrated in specific areas of Israel, including:

• • Occupied Jerusalem – Particularly in neighborhoods like Mea Shearim and Geula.

• • Bnei Brak – A major Haredi urban center located east of Tel Aviv.

• • Beit Shemesh – Near Jerusalem, and Modi’in Illit, a major Haredi settlement west of Ramallah.

• • West Bank Settlements – Haredim make up 53% of the population in settlements like Beitar Illit.

How Do the Haredim Sustain Themselves Economically?

Haredim rely heavily on government subsidies and charitable donations. According to the Israeli newspaper The Marker, the Israeli state supports a typical Haredi family with 10,000 shekels ($2,700) per month through Torah institutions, social welfare programs, and housing benefits. The report warns that such funding trends could lead Israel toward economic collapse.

A recent study highlights that the ultra-Orthodox Haredi community withdraws more from the state than it contributes. The study points to declining male workforce participation rates, as many Haredi men dedicate themselves exclusively to Torah studies while relying on state stipends. Conversely, Haredi women exhibit higher workforce participation, primarily in education and social services.

The Haredim also have a robust internal support system. Charitable organizations offer interest-free loans of up to 240,000 shekels ($64,000) per child, funded partly by wealthy Haredi donors abroad. These donations help sustain large families and provide financial stability.

Despite these financial challenges, 70% of Haredim own homes, compared to 63% of secular Jews, despite the fact that Haredi families tend to have six or more children. This raises questions about how they afford housing costs. For instance:

• • The price of a three-room apartment in Modi’in Illit is 1.8 million shekels ($480,000).

• • In Beitar Illit, similar homes reach 2.1 million shekels ($560,000).

How Do the Haredim Differ from Other Religious Zionist Groups?

Most Haredim do not actively support Zionism and prefer cultural and social isolation, unlike religious Zionist groups. However, following the 1967 occupation of the West Bank, Orthodox factions gradually integrated into the Zionist movement, prioritizing religious claims over previous opposition.

Extreme religious-Zionist groups, represented by figures like Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben Gvir, push for settlement expansion and greater control over the West Bank.

Some Haredi sects oppose entering Al-Aqsa Mosque, believing that rebuilding the Third Temple should occur only through divine command. This stance contrasts with religious Zionist groups advocating for immediate temple reconstruction.

Why Do the Haredim Refuse Mandatory Military Service?

One of the most contentious issues in Israeli society is the Haredim’s refusal to enlist in the military. They argue that Torah study is a greater protection for Israel than military service.

The Haredim fear that joining the army would threaten their way of life, exposing them to secular influences, moral decay, and distractions from Torah studies. During the ongoing war, former Chief Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef urged Haredim to reject conscription and tear up draft orders, stating:

“Those who join the army become corrupted. There are female soldiers, obscene language, and immoral behavior. Do not go there.”

The exemption for Haredim dates back to Israel’s founding, when 400 yeshiva students were initially exempted, recognizing Torah study as their occupation. Over time, this exemption was expanded to all Haredi men.

In 2017, Israel’s Supreme Court overturned the exemption, ruling it unconstitutional. However, Israeli governments continue postponing its enforcement due to strong opposition from Haredi political parties. This ongoing debate remains a key challenge for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whose coalition depends on Haredi support.

While secular and nationalist parties strongly advocate for Haredi conscription, religious parties vehemently oppose it, making this issue one of the most divisive within Israeli politics today.