Greetings
Greeting someone in Israel is nothing like welcoming someone in the US or Europe. When greeting someone in Israel, it is important to be aware of the cultural nuances. How you greet someone can indicate your respect for the person and set the tone for the conversation.
In this section, we will discuss the types of greetings you should use in Israel and the general customs when it comes to greetings in this country:
Handshakes
In Hebrew, the most common greeting is “shalom.” As in most cultures, the person of higher rank or age receives the first greeting. A handshake with direct eye contact is the most typical greeting among men, while women usually give a quick hug and kiss on one cheek to each other if they are familiar. When a man and a woman first meet, he should extend his hand. If you enter a room such as someone’s office or home, wait until you are invited in or for that person to gesture for you to join.
In an informal context and when shaking hands between two people of the same gender, three kisses on the cheeks (from left to right) is popular among friends. However, when more than two people are involved in the handshake ritual, kissing on the cheek may not be suitable; instead, one should go around shaking all hands while saying “shalom” followed by their name if introduced priorly.
If you do not feel comfortable with physical contact, it is possible in Israel to greet someone without making physical contact; simply saying shalom with a brief nod as acknowledgment will be well-received.
Non-verbal Greetings
Greeting people in Israel is an integral part of their culture and etiquette. While there are many verbal forms of greeting, several non-verbal techniques can be used to express greetings. Here are some typical non-verbal gestures that you may encounter in Israel:
- Handshake – Extended handshakes, with both parties gripping the other’s hand firmly, form the most common gesture for hello. Some Israelis like to shake hands several times when saying hello, so prepare for a more vigorous handshake if necessary.
- Kiss – Typically only done between close family members and friends, kissing elsewhere on the face (i.e., beside or near the mouth) is another popular greeting among Israelis. On rare occasions, you may be presented with a kiss from an older person as a way of courteously wishing hello or goodbye to younger people they know less well.
- Hugs – Hugs between family members and friends have become increasingly commonplace in Israel. It is common to receive a hug even if you’ve just been introduced – particularly among same-gender peers! You may also see men gesture affection towards each other by lightly slapping each other’s faces with their hands instead of making physical contact.
- Nod – Nodding is suggested as a polite form of greeting distant acquaintances whom you don’t know well enough to shake hands or kiss on one side of the face but still wish to acknowledge their presence with respect.
Social Etiquette
When visiting Israel, it is essential to be aware of social etiquette and cultural customs. Israelis are typically friendly people and have many different social customs that should be respected when engaging in conversations and other social interactions. Social etiquette in Israel is also important to avoid potential discomfort or misunderstanding.
Let’s discuss the different social etiquette rules and customs that should be kept in mind when visiting and engaging with the locals:
Introductions
Much like in other countries, social etiquette in Israel encompasses expected behavior for introductions, communication, and dress. These guidelines go beyond simple politeness and are viewed as a way of showing respect and honoring people.
When meeting someone new, it is important to take a few moments to exchange greetings. Introductions in Israel tend to be quite formal while still being friendly. What’s more, people rarely use a first name when introducing themselves, so titles such as “Mr.”, “Ms.”, “Doctor,” etc. are the accepted norm. When greeting a senior or someone more important than you, it’s polite to say their name before your own when making the introduction. Additionally, shaking hands is common when saying hello and goodbye and does not always need to be accompanied by eye contact if one person is uncomfortable or finds it awkward.
It is also understood that introductions usually carry an additional conversation about each other’s occupation or general interests – however, this isn’t always the case. Depending on the occasion and environment, strong familiarity between two people typically ensues from an emotional connection – not necessarily social titles, as they may be branded a little differently than in some western societies.
Gift Giving
Gift-giving etiquette in Israel is an important part of socializing. Gifts are usually given for birthdays, holidays, or to express thanks or congratulations. Presents do not need to be lavish and should reflect your relationship with the recipient. When giving presents to close friends, it is common for women to give other women small tokens of appreciation or friendship, such as jewelry, scarves, or chocolate. Men often give a bottle of wine or a gift certificate.
When invited to someone’s home for a meal, guests typically bring:
- Flowers
- A dessert
- Kosher chocolates (without milk)
- Fruits
It is customary for children to arrive at parties bearing small gifts for their hosts and each other.
It isn’t customary to open presents in front of the giver; the recipient usually waits until after the giver has left to not embarrass them due to any unsuitable gift.
Never send white flowers, as they symbolize death in Israeli culture! Likewise, avoid chrysanthemums which are connected with funerals in Eastern European tradition.
Table Manners
Understanding the etiquette in Israel is an integral part of visiting and enjoying any visit, as it helps form the basis of interactions within social circles. Table manners play a significant role both in public and private settings.
When eating, it’s expected for everyone to follow standard table etiquette like using both hands with bread instead of just one, not speaking with one’s mouth full, and always asking for things to be passed rather than reaching across the table. In addition, respectful behavior towards others is appreciated, including not speaking too loudly at meals or putting elbows on the table when having a meal.
It’s also customary to wait until everyone has been served before eating, and no one should ever begin eating before others have joined them at the table—this shows respect for all individuals at the dining table. Utensils are generally held in the right hand unless otherwise specified by etiquette.
In most Middle Eastern countries, shared dishes are served family style— meaning that there is usually just one big dish being passed around or a few big dishes placed in the middle of tables while everyone serves themselves from them. Before serving themselves, people may ask permission from their hosts or wait until they are permitted their hosts before taking any food from the shared dishes. The act of politely waiting for permission shows respect towards those who prepared and served everyone food.
Clothing
The clothing worn by Israel is a reflection of their culture and history. Israel has a rich clothing tradition, one that has been shaped by the country’s various religious, cultural, and social influences. Clothing in Israel can vary from traditional and modern styles, often depending on the occasion or event. Clothing styles often reflect the region, period, and political climate the country was in.
Let’s take a look at the specifics of Israeli clothing:
Appropriate Clothing
It is important to understand and be mindful of cultural customs and etiquette when visiting Israel. Regarding clothing, Israel is quite a progressive country, and there is a wide range of what constitutes appropriate attire. However, if you are visiting public places such as religious sites or government buildings, it is worth going the extra mile in terms of dressing modestly and respectfully.
In general, short sleeve shirts and shorts are fine in most casual places. On hotter days, T-shirts can also be worn around town, but it’s best to avoid exposing too much skin as this may raise eyebrows from some locals. Instead, women should opt for skirts or trousers below the knee. If visiting religious sites such as synagogues or churches, women should cover their heads with a scarf during services to show respect – it’s also important to remember that at some monasteries, women must wear long sleeves shirts and trousers that cover their legs below their knees even when in the summertime when temperatures are high.
The winter months may require warmer clothing if traveling away from Tel Aviv – scarves, hats, and gloves can all be worn when ready to explore further afield. Apart from what’s mentioned above, business attire is suitable for meetings with local businesses. However, a more casual dress, like wearing polo shirts with slacks, is more likely preferred nowadays by many corporate entities in urban areas across Israel.
Dress Codes
Israel is a modern, liberal country, and the dress code is correspondingly casual. Clothes should be neat and befitting the occasion – this usually involves conservative clothing in earth hues. Both sexes should avoid revealing or tight clothes, particularly when visiting religious sites. Shorts are allowed, although some sacred sites ask visitors to wear trousers or long skirts.
At work, it may vary; some offices are business casual while others require formal business attire such as suits for men and skirts for women. In fine restaurants, many people dress smartly; jackets for men and bright dresses for women usually suffice. However, according to age group, you will find a wide range of fashions, from jeans to more formal attire.
On Fridays, some wear white clothing that symbolizes purity in preparation for the Sabbath – known as Shabbat – which begins every Friday at sundown. During high holidays such as Rosh Hashanah, Jewish men often don a kippah (known as a yarmulke in Yiddish) on their heads inside synagogues and public places like shopping centers out of respect for God’s presence on earth. Some also wrap themselves with a prayer shawl known as tallit during morning prayers in the synagogue or at home, where services are held on that particular day.
Business Etiquette
Business etiquette in Israel is slightly different than in other countries, so it’s important to be aware of particular cultural customs. For starters, showing up a few minutes early to a meeting is expected. Additionally, it’s essential to observe the Jewish Sabbath and to be respectful of the religious customs if you’re doing business with Orthodox Jews.
These are all important elements of business etiquette in Israel and should be taken into account when doing business in this region:
- Show up a few minutes early to a meeting.
- Observe the Jewish Sabbath.
- Be respectful of religious customs when dealing with Orthodox Jews.
Meeting Etiquette
In the business world in Israel, punctuality is essential and expected. For example, if a meeting is scheduled for 2 pm, you are expected to arrive within 10 minutes of this time, so plan to arrive at 1:50 pm. Upon entering the office, shake hands with everyone present and introduce yourself by saying your title and name.
It is also essential to keep conservative attire in mind for any Israeli business meetings. Keep clothing modest – wear light colors as bright colors attract attention and are generally not seen as professional attire – and try to stick to long-sleeved button-down shirts or blouses and close-toed shoes. Also, be warned: Israelis tend to be direct in their addresses; this could come off as brusque or rude for people accustomed to more indirect communication styles.
It is polite to bring a small gift if you know you will meet someone you don’t know well. It doesn’t have to be expensive; common items include candy or pastries from a local bakery or a box of chocolates (macaroons being a trendy choice). Alcoholic gifts like wine should be avoided; if accepted, they should only be opened during leisure times like after-work dinners or holidays like Hanukah. Gifts given upon arrival should never be wrapped beforehand but instead presented without wrapping paper or ribbons.
Communication
Communication in Israel is often quite direct and to the point. As generations of Israelis have grown up with a “get to the point quickly” attitude, many business conversations can seem abrupt and lacking in small talk. Even though culturally, this is acceptable behavior, it’s important to remember that speaking politely and respectfully will always be appreciated. Refrain from using slang words or making jokes when possible, as not everyone may find humor in the same topics.
Greetings
- Handshakes are an expected form of greeting for both men and women, but it is also common for Israeli men to hug upon meeting and parting if they know each other well. Women often hug when meeting or parting, but you should wait for the other person’s lead. It can apply, for instance, between female friends who do not know each other yet; one person may opt to shake hands, whereas another may go for a hug, so wait for the lead before initiating a certain form of greeting.
Body Language
- In Israel, body language plays a vital role during communication – eyes are seen as the windows to what you’re feeling internal, so maintaining good eye contact while conversing is essential.
- Physical gestures such as pointing with your index finger should be avoided since they are considered rude by Israelis– rather, use open palms as welcoming signs or place your right thumb over your middle and index finger when motioning that something is small or insignificant.
- Personal space is respected in Israel – public displays of affection should remain relatively discreet out of respect for others’ comfort levels, particularly on public transport or in confined environments such as narrow market stalls, etcetera.
Gift Giving
Gifts are expected when visiting someone in their home; the appropriate gift is usually something small such as sweets, flowers, or a bottle of wine. Expensive or lavish gifts may be perceived as being ostentatious. Wrapping paper is not usually used; the gift may be presented inside a gift bag or basket.
Before giving a gift, check whether your host’s religion prohibits the acceptance of specific presents – such as pork products.
Gifts should be given and received with two hands and opened when received (unless it’s much later). Flowers are given on the occasion of joyous events, not necessarily only funerals, though white flowers are preferred at funerals; lilies and chrysanthemums are popular choices. Do not give yellow-colored roses because they indicate a lack of respect. It’s also important to let your associates know you appreciate them through verbal acknowledgments at business meetings and professional gatherings.
Religious Customs
Religion is a significant part of Israel’s cultural identity, and the customs and etiquette surrounding it have been cultivated over centuries. This section will cover religious traditions, such as the wearing of prayer shawls, the observance of dietary laws, and the blessings and prayers that are part of Jewish religious ceremonies. We will also explore other customs related to religious observances, such as the lighting of Shabbat candles, the wearing of a kippah, and the celebration of Jewish holidays.
Jewish holidays
Israel is home to adherents of the three largest monotheistic faiths: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. All are deeply ingrained in the country’s culture and involve certain important customs for visitors to understand.
For Jews, one of their most important religious holidays is Yom Kippur, or “The Day of Atonement.” This holiday typically lasts 25 hours and involves praying at a synagogue and fasting from food or drink.
Another major Jewish holiday is Passover or “Pesach,” commemorating the Exodus from Egypt. Passover lasts for seven or eight days, depending on local customs and practice, and it involves a special family meal called the Seder, which is celebrated at home on either the first two nights or for all eight nights.
Other important Jewish holidays include Sukkot (Festival of Booths), Shavuot (Festival of Weeks), Rosh Hashana (New Year), and Hanukkah (Festival of Lights).
For all these holidays, joyousness, reflection, and renewal generally characterize celebrations throughout Israel. Skilled preparation goes into preparing homes in advance for these occasions, including cooking special foods that are consumed during meals shared with friends, family members, and neighbors. Often, people will prepare by learning relevant verses from scripture so they can join in prayer while visiting a synagogue.
By understanding religious customs such as those associated with Jewish holidays in Israel ahead of time, visitors can fully appreciate this beautiful culture during their stay in this country, known as “the crossroads between East and West.”
Shabbat
Shabbat–the Sabbath–commences at sundown on Friday evening and lasts until nightfall on Saturday evening. It is a day of rest and spiritual renewal when no work is to be undertaken, including using electricity or driving a car.
The home is adorned with candles lit by the woman of the house; traditional challah bread in woven cloths that symbolize joy and obedience; glasses of wine or grape juice to symbolize the sweetness of Torah study; festive foods to add flavor and enjoyment. Children are included actively in the ceremonies, songs, and prayers, filling Shabbat with joy.
The Friday night prayer centers around thanking God for bringing the Sabbath as its particular kind of holiness, as opposed to mundane weekday activities or occasional sanctified moments such as holidays or religious celebrations like circumcisions or bar mitzvot. The prayers provide an opportunity for worshipers to reflect on their plight in the world rather than actively trying to influence it—a sort of gratitude for being part of an eternal system that includes rewards and punishments based on beliefs and deeds performed during our lifetimes.
On Saturday morning, prayers become more focused on seeking protection from evil spirits while asking God’s mercy so that we can lead lives based on our faith, even if life’s tasks attempt to take us away from our desired paths. Symbols are repeated throughout this prayer ritual: references to relationships with our Maker (God); advice (Bible); challenges (Ten Commandments); discussion (Torah); hope (Destiny).
Kosher Food
Kosher food is essential to the observance of the Jewish religion and is observed by many Jews who live in Israel and around the world. The term “kosher” comes from the Hebrew word “kashrut,” referring to dietary rules outlined in both Oral and Written Torah that identify various foods that can and cannot be eaten.
Kosher rules involve a combination of prohibitions on the types of animals consumed, preparation methods (such as ritual slaughtering procedures), and mixing of meat and dairy products. For example, pork, shellfish, and most insects are considered not to be kosher. Therefore, none of these foods can be eaten even when cooked or prepared correctly.
The laws also guide how to separate meat from dairy foods according to specific rules, such as:
- Physical separation (foods must not always share dinnerware)
- Avoidance of certain ingredients for various dishes
- A specific period of a wait between eating fish with sauce in it and then dairy products
Symbols found on food packaging help consumers distinguish if a food meets kosher standards for those who want to observe these traditions fully. For example, supermarkets in Israel often have an “Israel Kosher Supervision” section – meaning that the products there comply with kashrut guidelines.