Leisure in the twenty-first century: the case of Israel

The article deals with the concept of leisure in Israel in terms of time, activity, state of mind, and values. The purpose is to examine changes in how leisure has been conceived in Israel during its 65 years of existence. Which factors have shaped concepts of leisure and styles of leisure in Israel, a country with cultural foundations in both tradition and modernity, and one that encompasses a social culture consisting of new and veteran immigrants, minorities, religious and secular populations? The article examines Israel’s culture of leisure and its transformations. It may have practical implications for the educational challenge of imparting leisure behaviours, promoting understanding and tolerance of those different than us – and possibly even imparting ideal leisure practices.