THE MIFGASH FACTOR

Mifgash, or “encounter” in Hebrew, is used to describe one of the most meaningful aspects of the Birthright Israel trip, the time when young Israelis, many of whom are active IDF soldiers, join Birthright Israel groups for a portion of the 10-day experience.

The Mifgash gives participants an intimate look into the lives of Israelis, opening their eyes to a heightened understanding of Israeli military service, society, politics, culture, and family life from the perspective of their Israeli peers.

Though the focus of Birthright Israel is often on the Diaspora participants, the impact on young Israelis is equally profound. While many Israelis initially join the program thinking they will help participants better understand Israel and the IDF, they walk away having discovered their own identities and a newfound pride in their IDF service, their country, and their Jewish heritage. “ Before I went on Birthright Israel, my friends told me that it was going to be one of the most influential experiences. They said I was going to make friends for life, learn about other cultures and my Jewish identity, and have an amazing time. But all I could think was – how am I going to do all of that in 10 days? I thought I knew Israel, I knew that I’m Jewish, and I have my Jewish identity.

I really thought Birthright Israel was for Americans. I never thought that it would affect me so deeply. But Birthright Israel has affected my Jewish identity, and how I see myself as an Israeli. For me, I saw Israel in a different light and I can honestly say that Birthright Israel made my Jewish identity stronger.

The thing that surprised me most on Birthright Israel was that it was the first time I understood a lot of Jews in America don’t experience Israel like I do – their view of Israel is what they see on the news.

The majority of my friends on the trip shared with me that they didn’t understand a lot of things about Israel before the trip and I think this is the purpose of Birthright Israel - for young Jewish adults to see Israel through their own eyes. Birthright Israel allows them to experience the country, travel, laugh, cry, and mostly, love Israel.

And for Israelis, Birthright Israel truly gives us an opportunity to see how much we do for our country. It is the best present for a young soldier, to really understand how we are defending our country. ”

This year, Tom Shaked spent two months traveling the US speaking to Birthright Israel Foundation supporters about her experience.