Distinction between Judaism and Zionism

Editor

Those struggling against the racist ideology of Zionism must be clear: Judaism and Zionism are not the same. Judaism is a revealed religion. Zionism is a political ideology. Its adherents include Jews, Christians, Hindus, atheists and yes, even Muslims! In the US, Christian Zionists are a well-heeled group that wields immense influence over decision-making in Washington. In the Muslim East, most Arabian rulers are Zionists. They have openly embraced the oppressors of Palestinian people. Pro-Israeli propagandists deliberately attempt to link Zionism with Judaism. It is through such linkage that they try to silence criticism of Israeli crimes by branding it as “anti-Semitism.”

Like Islamophobia, anti-Semitism is real but criticism of Israeli crimes in not anti-Semitism. At the same time, it is essential for Muslims to be clear that they do not accuse all Jewish people of being supporters of Israel, much as the Zionists would like to link the two. There are many Jewish academics, scientists, and social and political activists that openly reject Zionism and are vocal critics of Israeli policies. Some have even suffered in their academic careers. Professor Norman Finkelstein is a prime example. The distinguished law professor, Richard Falk is another prominent critic of Israeli crimes against the Palestinian people.

Muslims struggling against Israeli injustices ought to make alliances with anti-Zionist Jewish groups and individuals as well as other human rights activists to seek justice for the long-suffering Palestinian people.