A Response to Chief Rabbi Mirvis on Zionism
A call for a new dialogue in dark times
As we mark the anniversary of the 7th October attacks, it is a moment of deep reflection and pain for many, especially as it falls between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, a time of introspection and atonement in the Jewish calendar. With tensions so high in the region, the horrifying death and destruction of whole communities, and the stakes feeling more significant than ever, we are reminded of the importance of thoughtful dialogue.
Unfortunately, even within our families, many Jews are scared to engage openly - as there is good reason to be afraid. When I am afraid, I always seek out voices that encourage our best selves and, in this spirit, I read the Chief Rabbi’s article in the New Statesmen with an open heart.
I have a personal connection to Israel through close family, beloved friends, and my personal history: so I understand why Zionism resonates as Jewish self-determination for many. Rabbi Mirvis’ reflections on Zionism as Jewish self-determination seeks to hold the heart of British Jewery; as befits his role.
I also applaud the spirit of the Chief Rabbi’s defence of an older history to Zionism - not least as it’s closer to the one I was raised in - as a movement that saw itself as part of global justice causes. One which meant that, in the 80s, I campaigned and protested for the Kurds and against South African apartheid - all of which was completely compatible with the ideology of my Zionist youth group.
But self-determination, like nationalism in many parts of the world, is not without its contradictions. Every nation, including Britain, constructs a narrative that often papers over the many different voices and identities that exist within its borders. Zionism is no different in this respect, and I believe it’s crucial that we acknowledge the role that Colonialism and the poisonous construct of Race played in shaping the movement, and the modern state of Israel.
This doesn’t mean rejecting Israel, or not challenging those that hide their antisemitism behind their views of Zionism and the conduct of the Israeli government. In fact, I believe we can love Israel while critically examining the forces that shaped it, much like admiring a beautiful stately home built with the wealth taken through colonialism. We appreciate its beauty while recognizing the painful history behind it. Such honesty, far from weakening our connection, can strengthen our love. Furthermore, we can more clearly see the common language of racism that hides below the discourse around the religions of the region of the Middle East.
In my work on the “Who Jew Think You Are? Podcast”, which amplifies the voices of Jews from Africa, Asia, and the Americas, we have explored how expansive Jewish identity is: how rich and diverse our histories are. Modern Zionism is part of our collective history, not least as come from within the European worldview - but it doesn’t represent all Jewish experiences. Embracing this diversity doesn’t undermine Israel’s importance; rather, it enriches our collective understanding of who we can be, as Jews.
At this critical moment, as tensions remain high, these conversations are more necessary than ever. Not to undo what has been built, but to ensure that our understanding of Israel, and of ourselves, remains as honest, inclusive, and nuanced as possible. Continuing as we are will only repeat and tighten the cycle of violence - and Jews must evolve our relationship to Israel from one that is failing.
Until we disconnect faith from nationalism we cannot truly imagine peace without oppression. By embracing complexity, we open up a path toward a deeper and more just future for all.
I welcome and respect the Chief Rabbi’s contribution to our collective reflection and, in the spirit of Havruta - or talmudic debate - I hope we can find a language for a more positive future for Zionism, for the citizens of Israel, and all the nations of the region.
Eylan Ezekiel is the Founder of the Who Jew Think You Are? Podcast