Yehiye Beseder vs. Þetta Reddast: A Cultural Journey Between Israel and Iceland

In two distant corners of the world, thousands of kilometers apart, two expressions have emerged that convey a similar sense of hope, resilience, and lightheartedness in the face of life’s challenges: “Yehiye Beseder” in Israel and “Þetta Reddast” in Iceland. Both phrases, literally meaning “it will work out” or “it’ll be alright,” have become profound cultural symbols, reflecting not only an approach to life but also the historical, social, and psychological contexts of these two nations.

The Meaning of the Expressions: Hope, Optimism, and Resilience

“Yehiye Beseder” in Israel:

In Israel, “Yehiye Beseder” is more than just a phrase—it’s a worldview. The term reflects a cautious optimism, sometimes even tinged with irony, in the face of existential, political, and personal challenges. Born from the country’s complex history—wars, economic crises, social tensions, and life under constant threat—this expression serves as a kind of mantra that allows Israelis to cope with uncertainty while maintaining a sense of control. It conveys: “Don’t worry too much, things will work out one way or another.” At times, it’s said with a smile, almost as a defiance of harsh realities.

The phrase permeates everyday conversations, from casual coffee chats to discussions about national crises. It reflects the Israeli culture of “improvisation”—the ability to find creative solutions in seemingly impossible situations, a trait often attributed to national resilience. However, the expression also faces criticism: some see it as a reflection of irresponsibility, a disregard for order and discipline, and a tendency to rely on improvisation over careful planning. Former Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin famously remarked in a 1992 speech, “Behind those two words lies everything that is not ‘alright’: arrogance and excessive self-confidence, power and dominance, which have no place.”

“Þetta Reddast” in Iceland:

In Iceland, “Þetta Reddast” (pronounced “Thetta Reddast”) translates literally to “it will work out.” Considered a sort of national motto, it reflects the Icelandic approach to life: an acceptance of uncertainty as an integral part of existence, coupled with a belief that things will resolve themselves in time. The phrase’s origins lie in Iceland’s geographical and historical conditions—an isolated island in the Atlantic Ocean, where residents have faced harsh weather, volcanic eruptions, and economic crises, such as the 2008 financial collapse.

Icelanders use “Þetta Reddast” to express a kind of philosophical calm. It conveys faith in the forces of nature, time, and human resilience to overcome difficulties. Unlike “Yehiye Beseder,” which can sometimes sound ironic or reactive, “Þetta Reddast” is perceived as more passive and trusting, almost a surrender to fate. However, it also faces criticism in Iceland: some view it as reflecting inaction or an overly optimistic dismissal of problems requiring active intervention. For example, during the 2008 financial crisis, critics argued that this mindset delayed swift and decisive action by the government and public. Yet, many others see it as an expression of national resilience—the ability to recover from crises, as Iceland did post-2008.

Why Israel and Iceland?

The similarity between these two expressions is no coincidence, stemming from comparable cultural and historical contexts despite the vast geographical distance between the two nations.

The Israeli Context: Israel, a young nation founded in 1948, has faced existential challenges since its inception. The complex geopolitical environment, frequent wars, and the need to navigate economic and social crises have fostered a culture of resilience and adaptability. “Yehiye Beseder” is a product of this necessity—a way to cope with a reality where plans often change, and solutions are sometimes improvised. Israeli culture encourages creativity and thinking outside the box, and this phrase is part of the nation’s DNA.

The Icelandic Context: Iceland, by contrast, is a small, isolated nation with a population of approximately 370,000. Its harsh geographical conditions—extreme weather, frequent volcanic eruptions, and reliance on fishing—have created a culture of endurance and acceptance of nature’s forces. “Þetta Reddast” reflects the belief that even in the most challenging situations, nature and time will provide a solution. The 2008 financial crisis, which saw the collapse of Iceland’s banking system, reinforced the use of this phrase as a way to cope with national crises.

The similarity between the two cultures arises from the need to confront uncertainty. In both nations, the expressions serve as psychological mechanisms to reduce anxiety and navigate unpredictable realities. However, while “Yehiye Beseder” in Israel is often seen as an active response to circumstances, “Þetta Reddast” in Iceland conveys a more passive, philosophical approach.

Conclusion: A Bridge of Hope

“Yehiye Beseder” and “Þetta Reddast” are more than mere words—they reflect the spirit of two distinct nations navigating challenges in unique yet similar ways. In Israel, the phrase is a call to action, optimism, and improvisation; in Iceland, it embodies acceptance and calm. Both offer a way to confront uncertainty, inviting us to reflect on the similarities between cultures, even those that seem worlds apart. Whether you’re a Jew in Iceland or a curious Icelander, these expressions remind us that in times of crisis, hope and resilience are a universal language.