Social Customs

Basics

Western-style social graces aren’t the strong suit of the average Israeli. But, despite the country’s legendary informality, the traditions and customs of its many ethnic and religious communities form an entire corpus of social norms. Sensitivity to those norms can open doors; ignoring them may cause offense.

Greetings

Israelis don’t stand on ceremony and greet each other warmly with either a slap on the back or an air kiss on both cheeks. Tourists are usually greeted with a handshake. Ultra-Orthodox Jewish men don’t acknowledge women, and very religious Jews of either gender don’t shake hands or mingle socially with members of the opposite sex.

Communication

Israelis are known for their bluntness. That openness extends to discussions on religion and politics, too, so don’t be afraid to speak your mind (but expect candor in return).

Gestures are more important than touching. You may meet Israelis who jump all over the place while trying to express a commonplace idea.

Israelis speak loudly and quickly. They give the impression that they are in a rush or frustrated. Israelis often yell as though they were all worked up when in fact they are speaking in quite a normal tone of voice.

Displays of affection are very common for everyone: whether you are seven or 77 years old!! People get worked up easily, in no time at all (when standing in lines, receiving poor service, etc). Swearing comes easily as well. In general, if a serious dispute occurs, bystanders will try to calm things down. There is always another “big talker” who will step in to bring calm to the situation.

Israelis hate hypocrisy and do not hesitate to openly condemn it. Speak frankly and in a straightforward manner. If there is a disagreement, it is important to talk about it and not just make insinuations.