Exploring Zionism: Understanding the Yearnings for a Jewish State

In today’s world, where universalism is prized, some struggle to understand the reasons behind the existence of a Jewish state. Are there reasons beyond antisemitism that supported the establishment of the State of Israel and its continued existence, or is that reason enough? This course will explore writings laying out the case for, and wrestling with, the ongoing project of a Jewish state. Participants are asked to purchase a copy of The Zionist Ideas: Visions for the Jewish Homeland — Then, Now, Tomorrow (JPS Anthologies of Jewish Thought) by Gil Troy.

This monthly, eight-session course seeks to create a space for learning, exploration, and questioning, in which participants are respectful of one another’s differing perspectives and come ready to listen and to share.