Chief Rabbinate of Israel

The Chief Rabbinate of Israel is the paramount authority on Judaism within the country, recognized as such by Israeli law. Established in 1921 during the British Mandate, it has been the guiding force for Jewish religious matters in Israel. The institution operates under the framework of the Chief Rabbinate of Israel Law, which was enacted in 1980. This law provides the foundation for its role and responsibilities in overseeing Jewish religious life in Israel.

The Chief Rabbinate is led by two Chief Rabbis who share the presidency of the Chief Rabbinate Council, alternating in this position. The Council plays a crucial role in supporting the Chief Rabbis and is responsible for setting guidelines, providing oversight, and supervising various agencies under its jurisdiction. Beyond its domestic role, the Chief Rabbinate also engages with the global Jewish community, addressing halakhic inquiries from Jewish organizations around the world. Through its legal and administrative powers, the Chief Rabbinate organizes and oversees religious arrangements for Jews in Israel, making it a central institution in the country's religious landscape.