Nissim Ze'ev

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Nissim Ze'ev is an Israeli politician and a co-founder of the Shas party, a Haredi political party in Israel. Born on April 25, 1951, in Jerusalem, Ze'ev has been a prominent figure in Israeli politics, particularly representing the interests of the Sephardic and Mizrahi Jewish communities.

Early Life and Education

Nissim Ze'ev was born and raised in the Old City of Jerusalem. He pursued religious studies in prestigious yeshivot, including the Porat Yosef Yeshiva, where he deepened his knowledge of Talmud and Jewish law. His upbringing and education in a religious environment shaped his future political and social views.

Political Career

Ze'ev's political career began in the late 1980s when he, along with Rabbi Ovadia Yosef and Aryeh Deri, established the Shas party. The party aimed to address the needs and concerns of the Sephardic and Mizrahi Jewish communities in Israel, which they felt were underrepresented in the Israeli political landscape.

Throughout his tenure as a member of the Knesset, Israel's parliament, Ze'ev has been known for his conservative views on social issues, including marriage, family, and education. He has been a vocal opponent of legislation that, in his view, contradicts the values of traditional Jewish law.

Controversies

Nissim Ze'ev has been a figure of controversy on several occasions, primarily due to his outspoken opinions on social and religious issues. His comments on the LGBTQ+ community and proposals regarding conversion therapy have sparked significant public and political backlash.

Legacy and Influence

Despite the controversies, Ze'ev's influence on Israeli politics, especially within the Haredi and Sephardic communities, is undeniable. His efforts have contributed to the visibility and political power of these communities within the Israeli political system. The Shas party, under the leadership and influence of figures like Ze'ev, has played a pivotal role in coalition governments, affecting policy and legislation on a range of issues.

Conclusion

Nissim Ze'ev's career reflects the complexities of representing religious communities within a diverse and often divided society like Israel. His contributions to Israeli politics and the Shas party's development highlight the ongoing dialogue between tradition and modernity in the Jewish state.