Ultra-orthodox Jews view of Zionism

 

Ultra-orthodox Jews view of Zionism

Ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) Jews generally view Zionism as a secular nationalist movement that conflicts with traditional religious beliefs regarding Jewish exile and divine redemption. While views vary by sect, their perspective is typically categorized into three main camps: 

1. Hardline Anti-Zionism (Extremist Groups)

Small but vocal groups like Neturei Karta and the Satmar Hasidic sect completely reject the legitimacy of the State of Israel. 

• Theological Basis: They cite the "Three Oaths" from the Talmud, which they interpret as a divine decree that Jews must not return to the Land of Israel by force or rebel against other nations until the Messiah arrives.
• Actions: Members of these groups often refuse Israeli citizenship, do not vote, and occasionally participate in pro-Palestinian protests. 

2. Pragmatic Non-Zionism (Mainstream Haredim)

Most Ultra-Orthodox Jews in Israel belong to this camp. They do not view the modern state as having any religious significance or being the "beginning of the redemption". 

• Political Participation: Parties like United Torah Judaism (UTJ) participate in the Knesset primarily to secure funding for their schools and ensure their community is exempt from military service.
• Instrumental View: They view the state as a "service provider" or a necessary secular authority similar to any foreign government under which Jews have lived in exile. 

3. Religious Zionism (The Opposite Pole)

It is important to distinguish Haredim from Religious Zionists (often identified by "knitted yarmulkes"). Unlike the Ultra-Orthodox, Religious Zionists believe the State of Israel is a central part of the divine plan for messianic redemption. 

Key Tensions in 2025

• Military Draft: A major point of contention in 2025 remains the legal struggle over drafting Ultra-Orthodox men into the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Haredi leaders view military service as a threat to their religious lifestyle and a "spiritual destruction" of their youth.
• Shift in Sentiment: Since the October 7, 2023, attacks, some surveys have indicated a slight increase in Haredi support for national contribution and military volunteering, though the leadership remains staunchly against mandatory conscription.