Exploring Moshavim and Kibbutzim in Israel

While Moshavim and Kibbutzim are similar, they aren’t the same. They are often confused with each other. Both are very important to the culture and the history of Israel. Not everyone agrees with what both entail, but the differences are what allow people to have their own way of life and to feel they are part of their community.

Moshav

A Moshav is a town or settlement. It mainly provides agricultural products. Those who take part in such a community are part of the overall labor force. The farms are individually owned, but they are taken care of by all.

The first one was created in 1921 in Jezreel Valley. Many of the Moshavim now make most of their money through tourism due to the agricultural difficulties they face. They still farm the land, but they don’t depend on it exclusively for their economy.

Amirim, in the north of Israel, is a unique Moshav. It consists of individuals who are vegetarians. As a result, the area is full of vegetarian restaurants, vegan food options and hotels.

Kibbutzim

This is a collective community that can consist of farming or industrialized areas. There is a communal type of lifestyle that allows everyone to benefit from the overall efforts of all citizens. There are more than 270 different Kibbutzim found around Israel and they seem to do very well. Restructuring continues to occur over time in the community.

One of the most popular Kibbutzim is Ein Gedi due to its proximity to the Dead Sea. The botanical gardens here are full of organic elements. It also blends in nicely with the beautiful beach. Palmach Tzuba is also a great one to explore. It is located on the outskirts of Jerusalem. The area offers lovely landscapes and a culture that seems to be thriving.