Understanding the Evolution

The Jewish quest for self-determination and a homeland has evolved significantly from the days of ancient struggles to the 21st century’s challenges against the backdrop of global politics. Critics often attempt to separate “Jewishness” from “Zionism,” aiming to paint support for Israel as separate from Jewish identity. This false dichotomy not only undermines the Jewish historical connection to the land of Israel but also ignores the manifestations of new-age antisemitism veiled under anti-Zionism.

The Resurgence of Antisemitism

Antisemitism has morphed through epochs – from religious persecution in medieval times, racial genocide in the 20th century, to the contemporary attack through delegitimizing the Jewish State. Zionism, the national movement for the return of the Jewish people to their homeland and the resumption of Jewish sovereignty in Israel, has become intertwined with Jewish identity – marking a transformative era in Jewish history.

Why It Matters

This connection matters more today than ever as incidents of Israel-bashing are not merely geopolitical criticisms but often sink into old antisemitic tropes, repackaged under a socially acceptable guise. This makes recognizing and confronting the blurring lines between criticism of Israel’s policies and outright antisemitism critical. Understanding Zionism as an intrinsic part of modern Jewish identity is foundational to dismantling these assaults on Jewish peoplehood.

The Prevailing Challenge

The distinction made by some between “good Jews” and “bad Jews,” where the latter are supposedly those supporting Israel’s right to exist, revives toxic narratives. Implicit in such divisions is a misunderstanding of Jewish cohesion and the significance of Israel to Jewish identity globally. Influential figures and policymakers mistakenly adopt such rhetoric, inadvertently fueling the ideological battle that endangers not just the Jewish state but the Jewish people.

Judaism and Zionism: An Indivisible Link

Presenting a solution, embraced by numerous Jewish thinkers, leaders, and communities around the world, is assimilating Zionism into the modern understanding of Judaism itself. Recognizing “Judaism 3.0” postulates a paradigm where supporting the Jewish state transcends political opinions, anchoring itself as a central tenet of Jewish identity in the contemporary world. This merger acts as a shield against surface-level criticisms veiled in antisemitism, making it evident that undermining Israel’s legitimacy equates to affront to Jewish peoplehood.

Conclusion

The path forward, safeguarding both Jewish identity and the Jewish state’s legitimacy, lies in a unified approach recognizing the intrinsic linkage between Zionism and Judaism. As anti-Zionism increasingly serves as a socially acceptable cover for antisemitism, unveiling this reality becomes indispensable. The understanding and acknowledgment of Zionism as Judaism 3.0 marks a crucial step in battling the ideological and existential threats facing the Jewish people in the 21st century. Embracing Zionism within Jewish identity repudiates antisemitic undercurrents and fortifies the Jewish nation against discriminatory onslaughts of modern times.

This story was first published on jpost.com.