Kibbutz

Description

Will Ruddick:

"The Kibbutz system is a fascinating model of communal living and resource pooling that emerged in early 20th-century Israel. The Kibbutz represents a utopian vision where members live and work together, sharing everything from land to labor to profits.

In a Kibbutz, imagine a vibrant community where everyone works according to their abilities and receives according to their needs. Farmers, teachers, and factory workers contribute their labor, while the community provides for all basic needs—housing, education, healthcare, and even cultural activities. This approach ensures that resources are distributed equitably, reinforcing the idea that everyone has a role in sustaining the collective well-being.

The Kibbutz system meticulously curates its community by setting clear expectations for contributions and participation. Each member’s labor is integral to the community’s success, and decisions are made collectively, ensuring that everyone has a voice. This inclusiveness strengthens the sense of belonging and shared responsibility, echoing the principles of commitment pooling where reciprocity and limits on exchange are key."

(https://willruddick.substack.com/p/islamic-wafq-and-jewish-kibbutz)

More information

• "In Jewish communities, the Gemach (short for Gemilut Chasadim, meaning "acts of kindness") serves as a communal fund or resource pool where goods and services are shared freely, akin to a localized version of the Kibbutz's collective ethos." [1]