Today, for better and for worse, many Jews consider Zionism and Judaism synonymous. But this was not always the case. In fact, since the beginning of modern Zionism, some Jews have stood in opposition to it.
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Ancient & Medieval Ideas
In the Bible, possession of the Land is tied to moral behavior.
The Rabbis developed an elaborate system of tithing produce, mostly to provide livelihood for priests and Levites.
In rabbinic literature, Israel was of primary importance--even as the Diaspora grew.
The Land of Israel was an abstract object of speculation and imagination.
Medieval kabbalah offers various approaches to the Land of Israel.
Modern Zionism
From religious idea to secular ideology.
Religious Zionists believe that the Jewish return to Israel hastens the Messiah.
A Reform declaration of Zionist belief.
Arabs in Zionist thought.
Settling all the land.
Controversies
New historians' critiques of Zionist discourse.
Groups like Neturei Karta and Satmar bitterly oppose the modern State of Israel.
The founder of the Jewish Defense League pushed the boundaries between spiritual leader, politician, and terrorist.
Since the beginning of modern Zionism, some Jews have stood in opposition to it.
In this book, David Hartman grapples with issues that divide Israeli secular and religious Jews.
Books & People
A philosopher, poet, and lover of the Land of Israel.
The foremost leader of Political Zionism.
According to Kook, Jews can only reach their full spiritual potential in the Land of Israel.
Rabbi Kook on nationalism and religion.
This Israeli philosopher saw problems with both secular and religious Zionism.