Jewish fundamentalism

Jewish fundamentalism in Israel encompasses three main trends: militant religious Zionism, and the ultra-Orthodox movements of both Ashkenazim and Sephardim. All these groups emphasize strict adherence to religious laws and moral teachings found in the Torah and Talmud.123

The roots of this fundamentalism predate Israel's establishment in 1948. Following the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE, most Jews lived in the Diaspora, praying for a return to Israel. In the late 19th century, Zionism emerged, advocating for a Jewish state, which some viewed as a secularization of the messianic hope. While many Orthodox rabbis initially opposed Zionism, believing it usurped God's role, this stance shifted, particularly after the Holocaust.123

Religious Zionism, or datim le'umiyyim, fuses Orthodoxy with nationalism. These groups have historically cooperated with secular Zionists and participated in Israeli governments. The Six-Day War in 1967 intensified the messianic aspect for some, leading to settlements in occupied territories, exemplified by the Gush Emunim movement.1

The ultra-Orthodox, or Haredim, generally reject Zionism as blasphemous, though their political parties engage with the Israeli government. The Sephardi ultra-Orthodox, represented by the Shas party, often find support due to social and political grievances alongside religious motivations. The Ashkenazi ultra-Orthodox focus on funding their communities and enforcing religious laws, though many have supported retaining territory gained in 1967.23