by Rabbi Ron Stern
In Matti Friedman’s book, Spies of No Country, he tells the incredible story of Israel’s Jewish spies from Arab lands. Well versed in the customs of Israel’s early enemies, these Arabic speaking Jews provided invaluable information to Israel during the first decades of her existence. At the same time, the ethnocentrism of their Ashekenazi handlers resulted in cavalier and dangerous demands being made of the spies.
While that topic alone is a fascinating survey of Israel’s early years, and the accounts of the spies’ exploits and sheer chutzpah is amazing, it is the chapter in the book that speaks about the enduring impact of Israel’s Jews from Arab lands on the state today that is most enlightening. Friedman reveals that contrary to the expectations of Israel’s Western European founders, the state has not become an extension of Europe in the Middle East. Instead, revealing the inevitability of the law of unintended consequences, the so called “minority” of Jews from Muslim and Arab lands have actually determined the character of the state. Israel is a distinctly Jewish version of eastern Mediterranean countries. Friedman’s analysis is complex and lengthy and can also be found here as well as in the book.
Friedman’s essay helps to understand the disconnect that liberal American Jews might sometimes feel with Israeli culture and politics. Most Jews in the United States, and the US itself, reflect an orientation that embodies western anglo culture while Israel, after more than 70 years, is more derivative of the region in which it lies. Appreciating this distinction goes a long way towards navigating relations between the two centers of world Jewish life.
Enter Z3! On January 26, 2020, Wise will host Southern California’s first Z3 conference on Israel/Diaspora relations. It will be open to Israel supporters throughout our region. Over 20 panelists will join us for a full day’s exploration of how some of the misunderstandings that divide us can be transformed into a dynamism that will strengthen our unity. Our conference will explore the way that notions of Jewish Peoplehood can unite us. Recognition of our common purpose can enhance our response to the threats that surround us by making both of our communities stronger as we create a Jewish people for the 21st century.
