Community Organization and Social Change: Examining Civil Society Development Across Israeli Ultra-Orthodox Groups

This study examines the role of three central ultra-Orthodox identities (Hasidic, Lithuanian, and Mizrahi) and their associated community structures in shaping social activism within ultra-Orthodox civil society organizations in Israel. Through semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 40 managers and activists in these organizations, the research reveals how community structures influence the degree and nature of social involvement. The findings indicate that Lithuanian identity and community structure foster greater social activism compared to other ultra-Orthodox subgroups. This increased engagement is attributed to two main factors: the “society of learners” model prevalent in Lithuanian communities and the centralized social structures of Hasidic communities, which provide comprehensive support to members, potentially reducing the need for external civic engagement. This study enhances our understanding of the complex relationship between religious identity, community structure, and social activism in Israeli ultra-Orthodox society, offering insights into the diverse manifestations of civic engagement within religious communities.