ISRAEL - Among Happiest Nations Worldwide
About a decade ago, the United Nations decided to measure the happiness of citizens in various countries. This global happiness index is based on a survey asking respondents to rate their happiness on a scale from 1-10, the help they receive from the state in times of need, the degree of freedom in their country, and the level of corruption. Unsurprisingly, Finland consistently ranks as the happiest country, primarily due to its minimal economic disparity. Meanwhile, Israel continues to climb the ranks, positioning itself among the top 10 happiest countries.
Following the crisis on October 7, many anticipated a significant mental health downturn in Israel. Contrary to these predictions, the Health Ministry reported a decrease in suicides from October-December compared to previous years, including the pandemic period. This unexpected resilience prompts a deeper exploration into the unique aspects of Israeli society that contribute to its high happiness levels.
Globally, humanity has never experienced such high living standards, with record-low morbidity rates, unprecedented life expectancy, and minimal levels of hunger and poverty. Yet, paradoxically, Western societies face an alarming rise in depression rates, now the second leading cause of death by suicide. Despite the plethora of self-help books and happiness guides, life satisfaction in these cultures hasn’t improved for generations. The demand for antidepressants has surged by 50% since the 1990s.
An entire chapter in the happiness index was devoted to the preference for an unconventional life. Many Israelis thrive on excitement and action, finding routine and calmness less appealing. This craving for an unconventional life is part of the Israeli identity, making the country’s citizens resilient and adaptable.
-www.jpost.com, 24 July 2024
Arno's Commentary
Israel is different; it’s as simple as that. They are being threatened with destruction by many states. But, among the top five most happy nations, Israel has reached fourth place, followed by the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, Switzerland, Luxembourg, and New Zealand.
What was written about 3,500 years ago identifies the uniqueness of Israel: “Happy art thou, O Israel: who is like unto thee, O people saved by the LORD, the shield of thy help, and who is the sword of thy excellency! and thine enemies shall be found liars unto thee; and thou shalt tread upon their high places” (Deuteronomy 33:29).
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Arno Froese is the executive director of Midnight Call Ministries and editor-in-chief of the acclaimed prophetic magazines Midnight Call and News From Israel. He has authored a number of well-received books, and has sponsored many prophecy conferences in the U.S., Canada, and Israel. His extensive travels have contributed to his keen insight into Bible prophecy, as he sees it from an international perspective.
