Question
How can a Jew justify not making Aliyah based on Halacha? Are there opinions (not followed but acceptable) that would forbid Jews to move to Eretz Yisrael?
Answer
One is not obliged to make Aliya in these cases: (Talmudic encyclopedia 25; 664)
A. Bitul Torah- he will not be able to study in Eretz Israel (and he can and does abroad)
B. Parnassa – will not be able to support himself or his family in Israel
C. His wife will divorce him if he will make Aliya.
D. When it's REALLY dangerous to live in Israel. (Not relevant nowadays…)
In all these cases though one has no obligation he is praised if he does so and great reward awaits these people.
One is forbidden to move to Eretz Israel if it is a clear case of Pikuach Nefesh for him, for instance – the doctor tells him he will probably die if he goes on a plane and there's no other way getting to Israel.
