The Language Gap: Why Understanding Arabic Matters in Israel

In Israel, a nation deeply intertwined with its Arab neighbors, the persistent language gap, particularly the underappreciation of Arabic, represents a profound societal deficit. As Nachshon Meir Spieglman writes for The Jerusalem Post, this isn't merely about knowing a few phrases; it's about understanding the nuances of a language spoken by millions within our borders and the surrounding region. The failure to bridge this linguistic divide fosters an 'us vs. them' mentality, where those who don't speak the language are easily perceived as the 'enemy.'

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We often say that we speak the language of sushi in a region that speaks hummus; we say we must “speak the enemy’s language” metaphorically, when truth of the matter is that we don’t speak it literally, and when you don’t understand the language, everyone begins to seem like an enemy.

Spieglman's personal experience during his military service vividly illustrates the perilous consequences of this communication breakdown. During a tense operation in the West Bank, a misunderstanding with an elderly Arab man, whose Arabic pleas went unheard by the soldiers, nearly resulted in a tragic incident. It was only when a soldier with rudimentary Arabic skills intervened that the man's true intention—simply to protect his property—was revealed. This near-disaster underscores how a lack of linguistic competence can escalate situations and lead to potentially fatal misjudgments.

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How is it that we live in a country where millions of people speak Arabic, yet we, as a society, barely know the language?

This incident, and subsequent experiences detailed in the article, highlight a critical need for greater emphasis on Arabic language education within Israel. While literary Arabic might be studied academically, Spieglman stresses the importance of conversational Arabic for genuine connection and understanding. The ability to communicate directly, without relying on intermediaries or assumptions, is crucial for de-escalating tensions, building trust, and fostering a more accurate perception of reality.

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It doesn’t matter that he’s old. There had been suicide bombers before who didn’t fit the expected profile.

From an Israeli perspective, embracing Arabic is not just an academic pursuit; it's a strategic imperative for coexistence and security. While Western media often focuses on political solutions, the fundamental issue of communication remains paramount. The Jerusalem Post, by publishing this opinion piece, brings attention to a vital, yet often overlooked, aspect of Israeli society: the need to actively learn and engage with the Arabic language to truly understand the complex tapestry of life in this region and to move beyond fear and suspicion.

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But that moment – that breakdown in communication – has stayed with me ever since.