Religious Identities in Neo-Nationalisms. Judaism and Zionism: From a Religious to a Political Identity.
DEDICATION: This article is dedicated to the memory of our president and beloved colleague, Prof. Norton Mezvinsky, a dedicated academic and passionate advocate for peace and morality in the face of rising neo-nationalism. His tireless efforts to understand and address this issue inspired countless minds and fostered a spirit of dialogue and inclusivity. Though he may no longer be with us, his legacy lives on through the conversations he sparked and the ideals he championed. May this work continue his mission to illuminate the path toward a more harmonious and just world.
ABSTRACT: This article compellingly explores the pivotal role of Zionism, tracing its journey from the early religious motivations of Puritan Protestants to the emergence of both political and religious ideologies that catalyzed the establishment of a Jewish homeland. First, manifesting during the British Mandate in Palestine, this movement gained further momentum with the formation of the State of Israel, a crucial outcome of the UN Resolution 181. Moreover, the article examines the profound consequences of the 1967 War and the ongoing occupation of Palestinian territories, highlighting the varied responses from the United Nations. It delves into the foundational narratives of Israel, revealing a transformation from an ethnic identity to an ethno-religious nationalism, and underscores the significant role of Judaism in this evolution, along with its legal ramifications. Finally, this analysis confronts the pressing social and intellectual challenges that arise from post-Zionism, addresses critiques of the movement, and discusses the emergence and radicalization of neo-Zionism, making a strong case for understanding these complex, ambiguous, and paradoxical dynamics in today's context.
