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Some are, some aren't.....The initial reaction of most Orthodox Jews to Zionism was bad, because it was mostly secular and because of the issue of waiting for Messiah. After the Holocaust, and with a greater openness on the part of modern Orthodoxy to diverse intellectual influences, some Orthodox became Zionists. However, the Hasidim and what have come to be called the "haredim" (the ultra-pious, non- Hasidic, very traditional Orthodox) continue to oppose Zionism, while using their electoral strength in coalition governments to gain concessions from the major parties. Thus, there are exemptions for their yeshiva students from the military, and their parochial schools get generous subsidies, which has caused a lot of grumbling among ordinary Israelis.........In anticipation of a next question, the Hasidim are Orthodox, mostly originating in Poland, who have, like the Amish, preserved the customs of their forefathers beyond what is strictly required, and who have given a mystical interpretation to Jewish practice, in a way that was considered unconventional by others Orthodox Jews. They have various "sects" revolving around dynasties of rabbis, and the traditions associated with their various groups, although they share many doctrines. One of the things that separated them from other Orthodox was an emphasis on fervency rather than study....... |
