Progressively Speaking: Is suspension of Parliament in line with Jewish values?
Student Rabbi Deborah Blausten takes at a topical issue and offers a Liberal Jewish response
With the prorogation of Parliament, a debate arises over whether suspending government business will ensure the democratic will of the people is carried out – or is actually an obstruction to democracy by an unelected minority seeking to do the opposite.
While democracy is not a Jewish principle, the notion that the majority’s voice has legal sway was established in Talmudic times.
In a famous rabbinic argument, Rabbi Yirimiya even dismisses God’s ability to intervene in democracy by explaining the Torah has already set out the principle that we follow the majority.
Exodus 23:2 states: “You shall not side with the majority to do wrong, you shall not give false testimony in a dispute so as to pervert it in favour of the majority.”
The Torah introduces two important caveats. The first explains that even if there is a majority decision, if it leads to harm it should be resisted.
In the second instance, we should be alert to false information that leads to a majority decision.
These caveats matter because they establish an important idea- that our allegiance must be to higher principles than process.
When judging the actions of a government, we shouldn’t question only whether something is technically possible, but also whether that action jeopardises the government’s ability to perform its central duty of care to the citizens of a country.
With prorogation comes real concern that vital legislation may now not be heard – including the proposed Domestic Abuse bill.
Torah specifically mentions our duty to protect the widow, the orphan and the foreigner.
A shortened legislative window increases the likelihood of a no-deal Brexit, making the rights of EU citizens and the stability of the Irish border issues of particular concern.
The proroguing of Parliament could become a problem if it increases the risk of harm to the most vulnerable in society – and instead strengthens the cause of those willing to put politics and personality above their human and civic duty.
Deborah Blausten is a rabbinic student at Leo Baeck College
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.
