Quick Read # 20: What do Rabbis say about Zionism

The plan for a Jewish homeland was not Jewish, but Christian; an idea, which came with considerable appeal for those pushing for a more open and secular Jewry though with much in-house opposition. Rabbis held sacrosanct the Jews were in exile by God, only to be united through divine intervention. Until then, they remain cast into the nations due to their sin; any thought of dominion or statehood deemed an abomination in God’s eyes.

From its inception, rabbis warned of the potential dangers of Zionism and openly declared, all Jews loyal to G-d should stay away from it like one would from fire. They made their opinions clear to their congregants and public. Zionism is a chauvinistic racist phenomenon, which has naught to do with Judaism. Zionism would be detrimental to the wellbeing of Jews and Gentiles and that its effects on the Jewish religion would be nothing less than destructive. Further, it would taint the reputation of Jewry causing utter confusion, in both Jewish and non-Jewish communities. Judaism is a religion, not a race or a nationality. That was and remains the consensus amongst the rabbis. (Rabbi Gedalya Liebermann: Extracts: The Role of Zionism in the Holocaust)

Joel Teitelbaum was so opposed to the idea of political Zionism he called it Satan’s work, sacrilege and a blasphemy. He forbade anything remotely associated with it, saying it would bring the wrath of God upon His people; that the creation of a Zionist Jewish State would prevent the Messiah’s return and the saving of Jewry from exile and punishment.

True Torah Jews continue to hold similar views, and concern for the widespread misconception that all Jews support the Zionist State and its actions, which endangers Jews worldwide. Being motivated by peace and safety for all people, including those living in Israel, they have no interest in, or support for the Zionist government. And declare, Zionism, by advocating a political-military end to Jewish exile denies the very essence of their Diaspora existence.

Around the world, rabbis are speaking out on the division between Zionism and Judaism, stressing they are not the same, not even close. During his recent street-corner oration in Montreal, Rabbi Dovid Feldman of Netutei Karta described the current military operation against the Palestinians as criminal; that it not only contravenes international law, but is a violation of Jewish law. The State of Israel does not represent the Jewish religion. Zionists have used Judaism to justify their crimes. He added Zionists are an occupying power and should leave Palestine to its own people that peace would naturally follow. This is not a war of religions; it is about unbridled greed and lust for total control.

But all is not well within the Jewish State either. Prior to the present conflict, people were taking to the streets in protest over various matters including judicial reforms. The present military operation involving the IDF and intentions concerning Gaza and the West Bank has again seen protests by Israelis, this time in support of Palestinians and peace though not without consequence; numerous beatings and arrests by police has followed. Opponents of Zionism have been especially targeted.

Clearly, no one is safe from extremism under any banner. Knesset minister and staunch Zionist, Avi Dichter recently stated on local television “Israel is now rolling out Gaza Nakba 2023.” In doing so admitted to Nakba 48’, which was always denied. When we observe the extremes of Political Zionism, it appears the traditionalists and rabbis were right all along. Nothing good can come of it.

So, let us pray the LORD shines His mercy upon the bruised and the broken suffering at the hands of the morally corrupt and their friends. That peace will soon enter allowing hearts, minds and bodies to heal. Judgement will of course come, when all men stand before God in the end…

In love and peace as always,

James