Religious Community Support — Kessim
Kessim — Beta Israel religious leaders, officially recognized in 2018. Two seminaries (Ashkelon, Be'er Sheva). Government support for activities, weddings, and life-cycle ceremonies.
Who are the Kessim?
Beta Israel religious leaders. Authorized to officiate life-cycle ceremonies: brit milah, wedding, mourning. Officially recognized in 2018 by the Ministry of Religious Services. Two active seminaries.
What's included?
- Religious services: weddings, brit, redemption-of-firstborn, mourning — via local kes
- Life-cycle ceremonies: Sigd (29 Cheshvan), Dakas (community memorial day)
- Kessim support: monthly salary from Ministry of Religious Services, insurance, pension
- Two seminaries: Ashkelon (Beta Israel tradition) + Be'er Sheva (rabbinical education)
Status and pay gap
According to reporting (Davar newspaper, 2024), kessim still earn significantly less than official community rabbis and are not fully integrated into the Chief Rabbinate's structure — despite the official 2018 recognition and the addition of 20 rabbinate posts.
Finding a Kes
- Council of Kessim: regional coordinators (Netanya, Rishon, Be'er Sheva, Ashdod, Rehovot)
- Community synagogue: most cities have a dedicated building
- Via IAEJ: list of active kessim
- For private ceremonies: book via local religious council
📞 Religious Council — Kessim Division: 02-5311111
This right in your city
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