By
– August 25, 2011
Today, when we hear the term Zionism we think of a political phenomenon.Before it became a purely political phenomenon, however, Zionism was a political nationalist movement, just like other nationalist movements of the late 19th century, be they Albanian or Italian. The big difference is that Zionism was Jewish national-ism.
Shalom Goldman, in his new book, Zeal for Zion, takes a fresh look at the movement that spawned the Jewish homeland. He looks at Zion from the Jewish perspective and he also examines and explains the Christian approach to the movement that brought about the creation of the Promised Land.
Instead of pursing a more traditional, textbook-like study, Goldman chose several historical characters and views Zion through their eyes. He compares Herzl to his Christian friends, he pairs Oliphant with Imber and he discusses the Popes’ visits to Israel. And finally, Goldman compares early Jewish settlers to Christian Zionists.
Goldman compares and contrasts seemingly discordant points of view and shows what motivated both religions’ relationship with Zion.
Shalom Goldman, in his new book, Zeal for Zion, takes a fresh look at the movement that spawned the Jewish homeland. He looks at Zion from the Jewish perspective and he also examines and explains the Christian approach to the movement that brought about the creation of the Promised Land.
Instead of pursing a more traditional, textbook-like study, Goldman chose several historical characters and views Zion through their eyes. He compares Herzl to his Christian friends, he pairs Oliphant with Imber and he discusses the Popes’ visits to Israel. And finally, Goldman compares early Jewish settlers to Christian Zionists.
Goldman compares and contrasts seemingly discordant points of view and shows what motivated both religions’ relationship with Zion.
Micah D. Halpern is a columnist and a social and political commentator. He is the author of What You Need To Know About: Terror, and maintains The Micah Report at www.micahhalpern.com.
