Many new immigrants rely on their partners to manage life in Israel for them and give up on learning Hebrew. If this sounds familiar, this blog is for you.
Let's start with the bottom line: We know it’s not easy to learn a new language, especially after moving to a new country—let alone during a time of conflict. However, living in Israel without learning Hebrew can mean existing in a bubble that is worlds apart from the life of native Israelis.
In recent years, at UAB, we've noticed a trend where new immigrants rely on their partners to handle conversations with healthcare providers, schoolteachers, and even supermarket delivery people. Whether their partners are native Israelis or also new immigrants, these individuals live their lives in English, French, Russian, or other languages, rather than Hebrew.
First and foremost, we want to stress that this is a mistake. It might seem convenient at first—after all, who wouldn’t prefer their partner to deal with the internet company or the bureaucracy? But think about it—really? As an independent adult, one of the most fundamental skills is the ability to communicate directly with service providers, doctors, and others. Do you really want to rely on your partner every time you're misunderstood?
The problem gets even worse when children are involved. Every parent in Israel knows about WhatsApp groups—Google Translate won’t save you there. What will you do when a teacher or childcare provider calls? Will you forward every call to your partner? And what if they’re busy? It’s crucial that every new immigrant reaches a level of fluency, ideally Kitah Gimmel in ulpan, so they can read, write, and converse in Hebrew.
The Importance of Learning the Language:
Research from top universities underscores the challenges faced by immigrants who do not learn the local language and rely on their partners instead. This dependence can lead to feelings of isolation, inequality in relationships, and a lack of full participation in daily life. Without Hebrew, you're more likely to face obstacles in employment, healthcare, and education. For instance, studies have shown that immigrants who don’t speak the language may struggle with access to jobs that match their qualifications and often end up in lower-paying, unstable jobs. This can put financial strain on the entire family.
Additionally, relying on a partner for communication can strain family dynamics. If you have children, they may learn Hebrew much faster than you, creating a cultural and linguistic divide at home. This situation often leads to frustration and miscommunication between parents and children. Plus, missing out on social and community integration means staying in a social bubble, isolated from broader Israeli society.
So, learning Hebrew isn't just about making life easier—it's about independence, confidence, and fully integrating into Israeli society. It’s a long-term investment in yourself and your family. Don't wait. Start learning today.
Comments