What is Religious Zionism?

Religious Zionism is a movement within the broader Zionist ideology that combines Zionism, which advocates for the establishment and support of a Jewish state in the historical Land of Israel, with religious Jewish beliefs. It represents a synthesis of Jewish nationalism and religious observance, aiming to create a society in Israel that not only serves as a homeland for the Jewish people but also upholds and is governed by Jewish religious laws and traditions.

Key Aspects of Religious Zionism:

Theological Foundation: Religious Zionists believe that the establishment of the State of Israel is part of a divine plan and that the return of Jews to the Land of Israel fulfills biblical prophecies. They see the founding of Israel in 1948 as a step toward the ultimate redemption, which is expected to culminate in the coming of the Messiah.

Support for the State of Israel: While traditional Orthodox Jews were historically skeptical or opposed to Zionism, viewing it as a secular movement, Religious Zionists actively support the State of Israel. They see the state not just as a political entity but as a spiritual revival of the Jewish nation.

Settlements: Religious Zionism is closely associated with the movement to establish and expand Jewish settlements in the West Bank, which they refer to by its biblical names, Judea and Samaria. They believe that Jews have a religious duty to settle the entire Land of Israel, as promised to the Jewish people in the Torah.

Political Influence: Religious Zionists are represented in Israeli politics, most prominently through parties like the Religious Zionist Party. They advocate for policies that reflect their beliefs, including the promotion of Jewish education, support for settlement expansion, and the integration of Jewish law into the Israeli legal system.

Cultural and Religious Life: The movement encourages a way of life that integrates religious observance with modernity. This includes participation in the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), involvement in the economy and public life, and the establishment of religious institutions, such as yeshivas, that emphasize Zionist ideals.

Historical Background:

Religious Zionism emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook being one of its most influential figures. Rabbi Kook's teachings emphasized that the secular pioneers of Zionism were unwittingly fulfilling a divine mission, and he sought to bridge the gap between secular Zionists and religious Jews.

Overall, Religious Zionism plays a significant role in Israeli society, influencing both the political landscape and the ongoing debate about the future of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.