Israel’s direction poses ‘existential threat’ to Judaism, UK’s leading progressive rabbis warn
Summary
Senior progressive rabbis in the UK say Israel’s current politics may clash with Jewish values and could threaten Judaism itself. They believe criticizing Israel’s government is a duty for Jews and have launched a book with essays discussing Jewish identity, Zionism, and Israel.Key Facts
- Rabbi Charley Baginsky and Rabbi Josh Levy lead Progressive Judaism, representing about one-third of UK synagogues.
- They warned Israel’s current direction might threaten Judaism, not just the country’s future.
- Criticism of Israel’s government is seen as a Jewish obligation, not disloyalty.
- They co-edited a book with 40 essays on Jewish identity, Zionism, and Israel from various viewpoints.
- Progressive Judaism supports a Jewish, pluralist, and democratic state in Israel but welcomes diverse political opinions.
- The book and movement aim to promote dialogue and show that differing views can make the Jewish community stronger.
- The rabbis identify as religious Zionists but reject far-right Israeli politics and support Palestinian self-determination.
- They emphasize no fixed political or theological position is required to join their community.
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