Adi Dvir has some interesting observations about China's society. But when trying to make comparisons to Israel, the writer is simply - confused.

The confusion arises from the failure to distinguish between religious belief/values/practice and "religion and state".

The writer mentions "respecting human life" and "be fruitful and multiply". These are religious values or beliefs.

In Israel, personal status (for example marriage and divorce) is controlled by the Orthodox Rabbinate. This is a classic example of "religion and state". The legislature has granted a exclusive monopoly/jurisdiction over the personal lives of Israeli Jews. Note, there is no civil marriage in Israel.

Yes, there are 'gray area' - such as Sabbath observance. On the one hand, this is a personal choice of religious practice; but on the other hand, the local and national authorities have certain "blue laws" regarding what can be open on the Sabbath and what buses can - or cannot run on the Sabbath.

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Joel Katz
Religion and State in Israel