Zionism

Pile of matzah atop a wooden platter next to a silver Kiddush cup

The Dual Reckoning of Pesach: Don't Be Brutal, Don't Be Naive

Rabbi Josh Weinberg

March 24, 2021

The fact that in every generation some individuals and groups rise to try and destroy us, as we sing, does not give us carte blanche permission and justification to act brutally ourselves – as every Israeli soldier knows.

Hands holding a mound of dirt and a small plant

Zionism

Tu BiShvat: How Israel Has Planted New Seeds in the Jewish Soul

Rabbi Neal Gold

The way we celebrate Tu BiShvat has changed over the years – a case-in-point of how Jewish life and observance has been transformed in our day, due in no small part thanks to the successes of the State of Israel.

Israel

Looking for a Virtual Dove: My Experience as a Delegate in the 38th World Zionist Congress

Dr. Miriam Heller Stern

October 20, 2020

I suppose I’ll have to wait another five years to attend the WZC in real life, but most importantly, I hope that all Jews will continue to have a seat at the table. May this week of deliberations bring unity and, like Noah’s dove, a sign of hope, tikvah, that is enduring.

Israel

When It Comes to Supporting Israel, We Can't Compromise Our Values

Garrett Layton

September 21, 2020

As a young Reform Jewish leader, I have sought to foster critical discussions about individuals’ relationships with the Jewish state. But Israel’s detractors make no distinction between progressive and reactionary Zionism.

Blue ballot box in front of an Israeli flag

Religious Pluralism in Israel

Who Cares About Israeli Democracy?

Rabbi Josh Weinberg

September 7, 2020

I agreed with my friend that democracy isn’t perfect. And I agreed that we must do everything to protect Israel as a majority Jewish State. I pushed back, though.