Religious Zionism facts for kids

Religious Zionism (Hebrew: ציונות דתית - Tziyonut Datit) is a special way of thinking that combines two important ideas: Zionism and Judaism. Zionism is the belief that Jewish people should have their own homeland in the Land of Israel. Judaism is the religion and culture of the Jewish people.

Religious Zionists believe that the State of Israel should be a home for Jewish people. They also think that Jewish traditions and laws should be a big part of how the country is run. For them, the land of Israel is very important because of its religious meaning. They believe the State of Israel should include the entire Land of Israel (which they call Eretz Yisrael). This includes areas like the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and the Golan Heights.

In Israel, Religious Zionism is a very strong part of Modern Orthodox Judaism. Many people who follow this path are involved in politics. You can find them in political parties like HaBayit HaYehudi (The Jewish Home) and also in Likud.

What Religious Zionists Believe

Religious Zionists see the creation of the State of Israel as a very important religious event. They believe it is part of a divine plan for the Jewish people. They think that living in the Land of Israel and building a Jewish state helps fulfill religious prophecies.

Connecting Faith and Land

For Religious Zionists, the land of Israel is not just a place. It is a holy land given to the Jewish people by God. They believe that living there and following Jewish laws helps bring about a better future. This means they often feel a strong connection to all parts of the land.

Education and Community

Education is very important in Religious Zionism. Many young people attend special schools called yeshivas or ulpana where they study Jewish texts and modern subjects. These schools help them learn about their faith and prepare for life in Israel. Communities often focus on Jewish traditions and supporting each other.

Religious Zionism in Israeli Society

Religious Zionism has a big impact on Israeli society. Many Religious Zionists serve in the IDF (the Israeli army). They see military service as a way to protect their land and their people. They also work in many different jobs, from farming to technology.

Political Involvement

Religious Zionists are active in Israeli politics. They want to make sure that the government respects Jewish traditions and values. They often support policies that strengthen the Jewish character of the state. Their political parties work to achieve these goals.

Youth Movements

Youth movements like Bnei Akiva are very popular among Religious Zionist children and teenagers. These groups combine religious education with outdoor activities and community service. They teach young people about Jewish values, Zionism, and how to be good citizens.

Images for kids

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  Religious Zionists celebrating Jerusalem Day in Israel

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  Religious Zionist pioneers found Kibbutz Ein HaNatziv, 1946

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  Kvutzat Yavne, 1945

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  Abraham Isaac Kook, 1924

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  Bnei Akiva youth movement, combining Torah and work

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  Mercaz Harav, Jerusalem

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  Bet Midrash, Yeshivat Kerem B'Yavneh

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  Aerial view of Bar-Ilan University

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  Ulpana students

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  Kfar Haroeh, c. 1950

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  Second-Lieutenant Asael Lubotzky, an IDF field commander during Second Lebanon War, prays with tefilin

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  Simchat Beit HaShoeivah at Mercaz HaRav. The participants are dressed as typical for Shabbat.

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  Shiur, Tel Aviv Yeshiva; the larger Kippot seen here, are more common amongst Yeshiva students, and Hardal

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  MK Orit Strook; the head covering and the sleeves are typical for the very religious; see also the above picture of ulpana students, and the picture at top for the longer, looser skirts described

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  Rabbi Yehuda Henkin; a dark suit is typical for a Religious Zionist Rosh Yeshiva or other (senior) Rabbi, and for other Rabbis on Shabbat

See also

In Spanish: Sionismo religioso para niños