Knesset restores right of rabbinic courts to adjudicate civil cases

Knesset passes bill expanding authority of religious courts, empowering them to rule in civil disputes after Supreme Court barred them from doing so.

By World Israel News Staff

The Knesset on Monday passed legislation granting rabbinical courts expanded authority to arbitrate civil disputes, marking a significant development in the country’s legal system and sparking both praise and criticism.

The bill, which was passed in its second and third readings, allows state rabbinical courts to serve as arbitrators in civil matters, providing that both parties consent to having a religious court adjudicate the dispute.

Supporters of the law described it as a restoration of rights and a strengthening of Jewish legal tradition.

Chief Rabbi David Yosef called the move a “basic right for every Jew,” emphasizing that individuals should be able to resolve disputes according to Jewish law if they so choose.

The legislation was advanced by lawmakers from ultra-Orthodox parties, including members of United Torah Judaism and Shas, and follows years of debate over the role of religious courts in civil legal matters.

Under the new framework, rabbinical courts will not replace the civil court system but will operate alongside it as an optional arbitration venue.

Criminal and administrative cases remain outside their jurisdiction, and their authority applies only when both sides voluntarily agree to arbitration.

However, the law has drawn criticism from opposition lawmakers and advocacy groups, who claim that it could undermine civil legal protections—particularly for women.

Critics argue that religious courts, which operate under halachic law, may not provide equal standing for all parties and could deepen divisions between religious and secular communities.

While proponents view the measure as expanding personal freedom and honoring longstanding legal heritage, opponents see it as part of a wider shift toward increased religious influence within state institutions.

The law ends a de facto ban on state rabbinic courts from ruling on civil cases after the Supreme Court ruled against the practice in 2006.