Abstract
The question of the strained relations between Judaism, as perceived by its Orthodox interpretations and liberal democracy has supreme relevance in the Israeli context today. Of particular importance in this regard is to Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook (1865-1935), whose thought is highly regarded in religious Zionist circles. Two variant models can be developed from Rabbi Kook's thought: Jewish Democracy, and Democratic Judaism. The first model is based on a collectivistic and particularistic infrastructure. The emphasis is on the exclusivity of the Jewish people and on the messianic nature of the Israeli politics. These positions make it possible, at most, to adopt a distinct Jewish democratic approach that falls short of minimal liberal democratic principles such as personal freedom and equality. Rabbi Kook also laid the foundation for a universalistic approach, on which an attitude of respect for the welfare and dignity of every human being can be developed, regardless of religion and ethnicity. At the same time, Rabbi Kook regards basic liberal democratic principals such as the rule of law and religious tolerance, in a very positive light. The interpretation of Rabbi Kook's thought on these issues by rabbis and politicians within religious Zionist circles may have impact on Israeli politics in the near future.
Translated title of the contribution | Jewish Democracy Vs Democratic Judaism in the thought of Rabbi Abraham Issac Hakohen Kook |
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Original language | Hebrew |
Pages (from-to) | 85-113 |
Number of pages | 29 |
Journal | Democratic Culture |
Volume | 9 |
State | Published - 2005 |
IHP Publications
- ihp
- Democracy -- Religious aspects -- Judaism
- Kook, Abraham Isaac -- 1865-1935
- Religious Zionism
- יהדות ודמוקרטיה
- ציונות דתית
- קוק, אברהם יצחק -- רב -- 1865-1935