Behind the Scenes at the Knesset

Advertisement

I learned most of what I know about the American government from The West Wing, which is probably why I knew next to nothing about the workings of the Israeli political system until recently. When there’s a TV show about that, I’ll watch it. Until then, I’ll hang out at the Knesset website learning random facts, like only 17 of the 120 people in the first Knesset were born in Israel, and studying the basics of Israeli government. It’s a great resource, since there isn’t yet an Israeli version of Schoolhouse Rock to explain to us how a bill becomes a law in Jerusalem.

I’m not the only one who was clueless when it comes to background of the Israeli government (thank God)–this week our Expert answers a question about the Knesset: How come it has 120 members, and not 100 or 150 or even more? Click here to find out.

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

Discover More

What Does the Torah Say About the Land of Israel?

The entire narrative of the Hebrew Bible is built around God's promise of the land to Abraham's descendants.

Introduction to the Jewish Rules of Purity and Impurity

The rabbinic laws tumah and taharah are complex — let us orient you.

Judaism and Cancel Culture

Jewish tradition prizes a multiplicity of voices, but it also considers some ideas too dangerous to circulate freely.

Advertisement