The country of Israel is the homeland for the Jews of the world. Although there are many different sects in the Jewish religion, the Orthodox are the most influential in determining norms of the society. This can be seen in number of ways.
             First, because of the religious observance of Kashrut, dietary restrictions are upheld throughout the country. Milk and meat are not mixed and meat is slaughtered according to the laws of Kashrut. Pork will soon be outlawed because it is not kosher and the Muslims do not eat it. The observance of no leavened bread or food during the holiday of Passover is upheld and most stores are forbidden to sell it.
             Second, during certain times during the week, month and year, public transportation is not available or operational. During the Sabbath, from Friday night to Saturday night, every week, this restriction is applied. There are also no buses or trains or airline flights during holidays. Thirdly, most clubs, stores, food markets, eateries and cinemas are closed on the Sabbath in order to keep the Orthodox practices. Since there is nowhere to go, even non-religious people use Saturday as a day of rest. This general acceptance and observance of the Sabbath by the general population creates a peacefull environment. Jerusalem, the country's capital, is quiet and truly at rest during Sabbath.
             Also, the Orthodox control the issue of Israeli citizenship. They have imposed restrictions on who can be a Jew and who can become a citizen. If a person's mother is Jewish, then that person can convert to Judaism and then claim citizenship, but if the person's mother is not Jewish, even if the father is Jewish, that person cannot convert. Also the Orthodox require certain conversion processes, like taking a mikvah, or ritual bath.
             Finally, the Orthodox have a good grip on the Israeli political machine. Even though the Orthodox only have a small number of members in the legislature...