Israel the new Sparta

Israel’s Military Service and the Modern Spartan Legacy

In Israel, military service is more than a civic obligation; it is an experience that shapes and defines national identity. Since the establishment of the state in 1948, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have played a crucial role in shaping the youth, influencing career choices, and solidifying an ideal of protecting the nation. Military service has become an almost universal rite of passage for young Israelis upon reaching 18 years old. This period, varying between two to three years depending on the branch of the armed forces or type of service, transcends mere duty. It is a transformative experience that permeates society, affecting personal relationships, careers, and perceptions of citizenship.

The impact of military service on career choices is undeniable. Many young Israelis, upon entering the IDF, not only acquire technical and tactical skills but also develop a mindset of leadership and resilience. Society values these qualities, and in many professions, especially in security, politics, and business, candidates with military experience are preferred. Israeli culture, to a large extent, celebrates and idealizes those who have served in the IDF. There is a certain reverence for those who dedicated a significant part of their lives to the defense of the country. This ideal of patriotism is rooted in the national narrative, where protecting Israel is seen as a collective responsibility.

Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz, center, with soldiers, 2012. (Israeli Defense Forces via Flickr)

However, this veneration has its flip side. Those who choose not to serve in the IDF, whether for medical, religious, or conscientious reasons, often face the stigma of disapproval. Israeli society, for the most part, views military service as an indispensable contribution to national cohesion and state security. This perspective often results in an unfavorable view of those who choose not to participate. Military service duration is not just a practical matter; it is a journey that nurtures a lasting ideal of a nation’s defender. The experience in the IDF creates bonds of camaraderie and a sense of unity that transcends social and ethnic divisions. Soldiers share a unique understanding of the challenges faced by Israel, experiencing moments of tension, sacrifice, and triumph together.Hannah Arendt, foreseeing that Israel surrounded by enemies could become the new Sparta, captured the essence of this phenomenon. Just as Sparta cultivated a militarized society to ensure its survival, Israel embraces military service as a response to a constant threat to its existence. This defensive mindset shapes the nation, providing a unique internal cohesion and an unwavering commitment to the security and continuity of Israel.

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Drawing parallels between ancient Sparta and modern Israel unveils a fascinating exploration of historical and geopolitical similarities. Despite the temporal abyss that separates them, both societies emerged following profound migrations, grappled with challenges of internal cohesion, and found themselves thrust into the perpetual struggle between Western Civilization and authoritarian forces from the East.A chronological exploration first unveils the shaping of post-Mycenaean Sparta through a colossal Dorian migration during the Hellenic Middle Ages. Analogously, the establishment of modern Israel unfolded over about eighty years, spurred by the geopolitical tumult of World War II. During their foundational epochs, both societies confronted challenges of conquest and consolidation. The Dorians in Sparta endeavored to secure new settlements, fortifying their position against external threats. Similarly, Jewish forces engaged in a relentless struggle to reclaim their ancestral homeland, confronting persistent challenges from the surrounding adversaries.Another convergence unfolds in the emphasis on the military and internal cohesion. Sparta ingeniously transformed the dominant caste into a collective warrior elite, fostering internal unity through a brotherhood of arms. Correspondingly, Israel has evolved into a nation in arms, capable of swift mass mobilization, with a collective military ethos that cements internal equality and democracy. Moreover, both societies assumed pivotal roles in geopolitics. Sparta stood at the forefront of the conflict between Western Civilization and authoritarian forces from the East. Likewise, Israel confronts contemporary geopolitical challenges, embodying Western values against adversaries that vehemently reject the ideals of freedom and democracy.The parallels drawn between ancient Sparta and contemporary Israel echo through time, emphasizing the profound impact of military service on individual lives and the collective consciousness. The enduring ideals of leadership, resilience, and patriotism cultivated within the crucible of the Israeli Defense Forces become the bedrock of the nation’s identity. As Israel faces external threats and internal debates, the comparison serves as a poignant reminder of the timeless struggle between Western values and authoritarian forces. Embracing the lessons of history, Israel stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment to its security and continuity, mirroring the spirit of Sparta in the modern age.

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