Unity and conflict in an Israeli village

This paper offers an ethnographic recounting of the author's experience as a transplanted Canadian in a small, religious community in Northern Israel where the original residents are Moroccanhazar b 'tshuva andharedi. Religious conflicts and cultural misunderstandings between these native Israeli residents and a small group of Canadian and American immigrants are described. The death of one of the Canadians proves to be a pivotal event, bringing the residents together. Analysis of the incidents of conflict suggests a cycle of conflict and resolution leading to gradually deepening understanding between the diverse groups and a tentative move toward greater unity.