What Is the Relationship Between Judaism and Democracy?

Is There a Better System of Government Than Democracy? Recently, we hear again and again about the celebration of democracy occurring in various parties. The public or its representatives are asked; the 'voter' expresses their 'opinion,' and the majority rules. Everything seems beautiful, dignified, and collegial. On the other hand, experts argue that in recent years, democracy's status has been eroded. Among certain groups, it has almost become a derogatory word. Some view democracy as synonymous with chaos, shameless bargaining, and near-anarchy. There is a yearning for a 'strong leader' to come and 'bring order.' We occasionally hear the accusation against the Torah that it is not democratic, which sounds like an extreme allegation. Therefore, it is worth examining the meaning of democracy to organize our thoughts.

The Will of the People The literal meaning of 'democracy' is the rule of the people (demos = people; kratos = rule). That is, the people themselves decide how their lives will be conducted. The opposite is 'dictatorship,' which means tyranny, oppression. Someone who does not represent the will of the people imposes their opinion on them. Usually, dictatorship is also synonymous with corruption and oppression. Democracy became the accepted system of governance in our times not because it is perfect but because it is preferable to dictatorship. Democracy is a very flawed system of government, say its proponents, but it is far better than the alternative. That is, it is the lesser of two evils. The growing opposition to democracy stems from the fact that it reflects our own image: the immense polarization among the people, the confusion and inability to decide, the intellectual shallowness, materialism, and other unsavory phenomena. It serves as a sort of mirror of society, and the anger is directed at the mirror. All attempts to 'change the system of government' express frustration with the current situation, but there is no understanding that the system is not to blame, but rather the terrible polarization and loss of direction present in the nation.

The People Want Mashiach The Torah does not dismiss democracy. On the contrary, Halacha provides clear rules for governance that must be determined by the majority. But the Torah offers a foundation upon which everything is built. It prevents anarchy and loss of direction. It serves as a constitution, a solid and clear ethical basis. There is still ample space for public opinion to be expressed, but within a framework. Clearly, such a situation can only occur if the people desire it. When the majority of the Jewish people accept the rule of the Torah, it will express the majority's will. This will be the democracy at its best - a full expression of the people's will, within the Torah's spiritual and ethical framework. But as stated, for this to happen, the people must change. However, there is a better system of governance - the rule of Mashiach.

This unites all the advantages of other systems. It fully expresses the people's will, because who doesn't want Mashiach? There are no disputes and divisions, for Mashiach will unify the Jewish people entirely. There will be no hesitation, procrastination, or confusion, because the word of the king Mashiach will be clear, strong, and definitive. And, of course, there will be no negative aspects of oppression and tyranny. Indeed, we have reached a point where these 'government changes' are expected. The people have reached enormous frustration with the current situation. Some say the people need to 'change.' Some are looking for a 'strong person.' All these say, in essence, that they want Mashiach. People today want Mashiach, even if they don't know how to say the explicit word.