Downtown Tel Aviv
Photo: Miriam Woelke
B”H
Should a Jew make Aliyah to Israel when he is already older than 50 years old ? From a religious point of view I cannot tell a Jew not to move to Israel but reality works slightly different .
Unless you are from the US or Canada and thus get supported by Nefesh be’Nefesh, you should definitely bring some savings with you. Even when Nefesh be’Nefesh is supporting you, never forget that one day the money supply will finish and then you have to be the breadwinner.
The Israeli job situation for people who are older than 50 is not the best. Just as everywhere else in the world. Furthermore, if you fit into the 50 + age category think very carefully whether you are ready for Aliyah when your children and grandchildren remain in the US or any other country but Israel. I know “elderly” people with kids and grandchildren in their countries of origin who keep on talking about how much they miss their family. Thus, don't underestimate the lack of your close relatives.
Link:
Aliyah to Zfat
Link:
Aliyah to Zfat
B"H
ReplyDeleteAs it seems Nefesh wants young families and singles/couples to make Aliyah rather than retiree's.
My feeling would be making such a large transition would be very difficult especially for those whom are retired.
And now Nefesh wants more people to move south. How many people are willing to live in the Negev??
Depending if they are frum or not. Some may have the means of purchasing homes but others not so.
Look how many blogs are dedicated to the costs of making Aliyah, which items to buy in bulk and bring and what products are not available/not up to par.
How many people are willing to go in front of a committee if they want to move into a certain community. If one doesn't own a car. Then they need to find a community with ample transport.
I think many people want to make Aliyah but don't have to means to. No one wants to end up in dire financial straits that leaves them with no alternative but to find a job which doesn't pay much due to lack of Hebrew or will return back to the UK/States/Canada/Australia.
B"H
ReplyDeleteFirst, Nefesh be'Nefesh used to sent tons of new Olim to Beit Shemesh and Modi'in. Now it is Beersheva in the Negev and Carmiel in the north.
I think that everyone thinking about making the move towards Aliyah should come to Israel and check out the country first. Take a few weeks off and travel around. Speak to people, get to know the mentality and just think if you can live here. Don't only trust in the Nefesh be'Nefesh propaganda but check it out on your own.
Too many new olim live off their NBN funds and then return to their countries of origin.
Every new immigrant has his own personal Aliyah story and when I made Aliyah, I didn't go through blogs but packed my stuff and left.
It may have been easier for me as a single but two considerations are important:
1. Check out Israel before you move here !!!
2. Don't only rely on the NBN funds but have you own saving.