6 Oct 2023: Jewish-Muslim Conversation on Zionism
6 October 2023
Jewish-Muslim Conversation on Zionism
Today, I took a bold step to initiate a dialogue about Zionism with some Israeli Jews. I needed to find the courage to pursue this, given the substantial disapproval of those who associate Zionist ideology with the policies of the State of Israel, attributing it to the displacement and marginalisation of Palestinians.
Approaching the dialogue with Israeli Jews, I consciously set aside my preconceptions, assumptions, and existing knowledge. I intended to listen to their perspectives on Zionism genuinely. All I brought to the table were questions tinged with anxiety and fear, emotions I cautiously kept in check. Over the recent years of research and dialogue on Jewish-Muslim relations, I've matured in handling my curiosity, allowing me to better calibrate my dialogues with thoughtful inquiry.
My hosts demonstrated respect and acknowledgement of my identity as a Muslim woman, ensuring a comfortable environment throughout our interaction. While they appreciated my curiosity to understand Zionism from their viewpoint, recognising its contentious nature beyond the Jewish community, they expressed concern about potential criticism directed at me for engaging in these discussions, irrespective of our points of agreement or disagreement. This empathy enabled a safe space for the dialogue.
The dialogue was not intended to be a mere exploration of the historical aspects of Zionism; I wasn't seeking a lecture or an awareness session on the topic. Instead, the goal was to comprehend the contemporary dimensions of Zionism from religious, social, and political perspectives. This meeting with Israeli Jews was a re-starting point.
The conversation revolved around the ongoing relevance of Zionism, particularly in light of its realisation in the establishment of the State of Israel during the 1930s. Throughout our discussion, we explored various facets, focusing on the emotional and ideological dimensions of Zionist identity. We delved into existential concerns, security considerations, nationalistic sentiments, and theological connections associated with Zionism.
It became apparent that Zionism encompasses a diversity of perspectives, spanning secular, political, religious, and cultural realms. Notably, we discussed the existence of dissenting voices within the Jewish community, such as liberal Jews critical of specific policies of the Israeli Government, underscoring the complexity inherent in the Zionist movement. Our dialogue also encompassed discussions about the concept of the Jewish homeland, which inevitably led to conversations about Arab Israelis, Palestine, and Gaza. We navigated through political discourse, touching upon the presence of Hamas in Gaza and its charter, which contributes to the perceived vulnerability experienced by Israeli Jews.
I had initially intended to explore the compatibility of Zionism with a two-state solution. I wondered whether Zionism could coexist with the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, allowing for Palestinian self-determination. However, I realised that discussing Israeli settlements would be necessary for this conversation, and I didn't feel emotionally or intellectually prepared to broach that topic today.
At the same time, I pondered whether countries advocating for a two-state solution implicitly acknowledge the foundational principles of Zionism upon which the State of Israel was established. I wondered if Arab states that have normalised relations with Israel or are considering doing so have reconciled themselves with the idea of Zionism, which was once vehemently rejected by the Arab world. These questions prompted me to acknowledge the situation's complexity and underscored the importance of further research and dialogue on these topics.
Acknowledging the complexities involved, I feel compelled to explore the position of Zionism within my interfaith friendships, especially with some of my Jewish friends. I understand that not everyone may welcome this perspective, but I believe it's important to delve into it nonetheless.
On one hand, I often hear people express that they have no issue with Jews but object to Zionists. However, I sometimes struggle to separate these identities among the Jewish individuals I've encountered. While Zionism is commonly understood as a national movement that led to the establishment of Israel, I've noticed that individual Jews with diverse backgrounds and political beliefs connect with this ideology differently. Some may even oppose it, identifying as anti-Zionist.
Though not my first, this attempt was particularly challenging, as even some of my family members may not appreciate it. They may see it as unnecessary or irrelevant to my primary focus on fostering interfaith friendships between Jewish people and Muslims. I've learned that tolerance is often extended only to Jews and not to Zionists or their supporters. Despite this, I felt compelled to push the boundaries once again. I wanted to hear from Jews of diverse backgrounds what Zionism means to them as individuals and as a community. And I do not see the need to take a stance on Zionism to discover this.
May I be guided by Allah.
Holding the Ropes: Interfaith Dialogue & Reflections Surrounding the Israel-Gaza War is a blog series that follows the events, dialogues and reflections experienced by Nazhath Faheema in the aftermath of the 2023 Israel-Gaza war. Triggered by the Hamas attack on Israel on 7 October 2023 and Israel’s military response, there continues to be widespread destruction and civilian displacement in Gaza. Additionally, Israeli hostages remain in captivity.
Against this backdrop, Nazhath Faheema, through her reflections, provides insights into the dynamics of the war, its impact on interfaith relations, and the inherent challenges and opportunities in fostering understanding and empathy between Jewish and Muslim communities.
