The concept of Zionism is somewhat difficult to define, seeing as different sources and movements can present clashing definitions. Nevertheless, one of the first Zionists, Nathan Birnbaum, explained that Zionism refers to the movement that wished for the creation of a Jewish State. Later, during Theodore Herzl’s time, Zionism came to signify the support of the creation of Jewish State in the land of Palestine. Since Herzl, the definition of Zionism has evolved to mean the support of the Jewish State in the land of Israel. There are as many definitions of Zionism as there are personal relationships to the Israel, and it is important to understand and be educated about different Zionist perspectives.
Zionism has come to be an umbrella term for many different facets of support for the State of Israel. Secular Zionism, Religious Zionism, and Eco-Zionism, each fall under this umbrella. Beginning with Herzl, Secular Zionism sought to bring the Jews living in the Diaspora back to the land of Palestine. Supporters of Secular Zionism are usually considered to be those who believe that a Jewish state is necessary to preserve the Jewish people. Religious Zionism is based on the Torah, which provides a theological argument for the existence of the Jewish State in the land of Israel. Eco-Zionism refers to the preservation of the actual ‘land’ of the State of Israel. While these three types of Zionism tend to be the most well known, there are other valid perspectives as well.
NFTY’s study theme does not advocate for any particular definition of Zionism. Instead, NFTY encourages individuals to become educated about different types of Zionism, so that we can each make educated decisions about which type of Zionism resonates most closely with each of us.
