Strata

Rabbis Added to Israel’s Archaeological Council

The Culture Wars, Continued

Will four rabbis appointed to Israel’s Archaeological Council help prevent future clashes between ultra-Orthodox zealots and archaeologists at ancient burial sites? Or is this the beginning of a shift in power away from professional control over archaeology in Israel?

The council is a 38-person body appointed by Israel’s Minister of Education to advise the director of the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA). Though the council is only advisory, IAA director Amir Drori relies on it heavily: “I have never, never failed to accept the recommendations of the council.” The council’s most important decisions concern the granting of permits to dig.