The Changing Role of the Shliach


 

Publication Date: December 1974

Publisher: Jewish Communal Service Association of North America

Author(s): Gerald Cromer

Research Area: Culture and religion

Keywords: Jewish Organizations; Diaspora Relations; Israel Advocacy

Type: Report

Coverage: Israel

Abstract:

The author examines the purpose of the shliach, the messenger from Israel, in the Diaspora in modern times. In the beginning of Zionism, the author explains, the shliach's purpose was to offer emigration to Israel as an alternative to the widespread antisemitism faced in the Diaspora. But now that antisemitic attacks and pogroms are not a problem for most Diaspora Jews, the author contends, the role of the shliach must be drastically rethought.