Loving Torah Amidst the Threats of Antisemitism: A Rabbi’s Perspective
Introduction:
As I approach my 80th birthday, I am grateful for the honeymoon life that being a Jew has afforded me. Born during the tail end of World War II, I grew up in an era where antisemitism was largely under control, despite its presence. The guilt of the world over the Holocaust may have played a role in keeping Jew haters at bay. However, anti-Semitism was and still is a persistent issue that requires our unwavering attention.
The Three Forms of Antisemitism: People, Ideology, and Land
Although the Holocaust is in our rearview mirror, it serves as a reminder that antisemitic sentiments have not vanished. The forms of hatred towards Jews can be categorized into three areas: people, ideology, and land.
1. Antisemitism as a Hate Against People: The Holocaust was an attempt to eradicate the Jewish people by targeting them because they were Jews. Two thousand years ago, Haman in the Book of Esther had a similar goal. While antisemitic attacks have occurred throughout history, they are not endemic today and should be condemned whenever they surface.
2. Antisemitism as a Rejection of Jewish Ideology: During the Soviet era, antisemitism took on an ideological form as the state rejected Judaism and tried to suppress its practice. Jews were held hostage behind the Iron Curtain if they wished to emigrate. Today, some continue to deny Jews the right to be sovereign in their own land.
3. Antisemitism as a Denial of Jewish Self-Determination: The denial of self-determination for the Jewish people makes them vulnerable to future threats. As a stateless people, Jews throughout history have faced persecution, discrimination, and expulsion. Today’s anti-Zionists ignore this historical reality when they claim that they are not against Jews but rather against Jewish self-determination in the form of a state.
The Importance of Zionism
Zionism is more than just a place where Jews can be free and safe; it is inherently part of Jewish consciousness. Israel is not an external entity but rather a vital component of Jewish identity. For the vast majority of Jews, Israel and being Zionist are deeply intertwined aspects of their lives.
The Interfacing of Anti-Zionism and Antisemitism: No Jews Allowed?
Many anti-Israel demonstrations target Jewish institutions instead of Israeli ones, revealing a dangerous intersection between anti-Zionism and antisemitism. While not every anti-Zionist is an anti-Semite, the trend indicates that those who reject Jewish self-determination also target Jews themselves.
The Necessity of Being a Zionist: Saving Ourselves with Strength
Purim tells the story of a vulnerable Jewish community living in the diaspora that was threatened with annihilation. Its unspoken message is the necessity for Jews to be Zionist, to live in Zion, and to have a homeland where they can protect themselves with strength. Israel is the only place where Jews collectively have this power and ability to make a positive impact on the world.
Conclusion:
Purim reminds us of the importance of being Zionist, of living in Zion, and having a homeland where we can protect ourselves. By understanding the historical contexts of antisemitism and recognizing its various forms, we can better defend our community from threats that have persisted throughout history. As Jews, it is crucial to embrace our self-determination and live in a place where we can safeguard our future.
