Q&A: Zionist? Relevant?
Zionist? Relevant?
Question
What does the term “Zionist” mean today? I think that over time the concept of Zionism is no longer all that relevant; there isn’t really any way to realize it anymore, and the definition has become hollow. Enlist in the army? (Other than going to the army, what is even left? Hallel on Independence Day? It’s kind of a joke to be considered a Zionist because of that.) It just feels like today people are fighting over a definition when, in practice, aside from the Haredim, everyone is basically the same. And disputes over the ways to ensure the state’s security (giving up territory, etc.) are no longer really on the table in the arguments. The arguments, and most of the battles today, are connected to religion and attitudes toward Arabs (and when it comes to Arabs, it’s a kind of paradox between attitude and fear that there’s no way out of). But that isn’t really connected to Zionism. So the question is whether today, if someone defines himself as Zionist (Religious Zionist), is it really true that this is actually part of who he is?
Answer
I didn’t really see a clearly defined question here. But you’re absolutely right that this definition is neither important nor sharp.
Discussion on Answer
Not really.
It’s interesting how many of the definitions we attach to ourselves are drawn from concepts that aren’t relevant and don’t really distinguish who we are. I think it’s because today there isn’t all that much to fight over except for very clear things like climate, animal welfare—things that are more global.
I think the next step is a return to community: people will realize they’re not really part of some bigger “ism,” and they’ll look for something more concrete (also because there’s too much free time now, more than before, so the importance of ongoing relationships and being part of something real, tangible, will also sink in).
Does being a Zionist today still have any implications besides the army (which also isn’t really all that connected to Zionism)?