Unpacking Israeli History The Neturei Karta: Haredi Jews who reject the State of Israel
Sep 2, 2025
Dive into the world of the Neturei Karta, a fringe sect of ultra-Orthodox Jews who reject Zionism and the State of Israel. Discover the complex emotions and historical roots of Haredi anti-Zionism, and the controversies it stirs within the Jewish community. Personal narratives reveal the struggle between religious beliefs and political identities, highlighting the challenges to Jewish unity. Reflect on themes of identity, representation, and the internal rifts that question what it means to be Jewish in today’s world.
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Parade Confrontation That Stuck With Him
- Noam recounts losing his temper at the 2007 Israel Day Parade when he saw Neturei Karta members protesting with Palestinian flags.
- That outburst led to a personal reflection and ultimately meeting his future wife shortly thereafter.
Historical Roots Of Haredi Anti‑Zionism
- Haredi opposition to Zionism was historically common and rooted in deep theological and cultural concerns.
- Early anti-Zionist leaders feared secular nationalism would replace Torah-centred life in the Holy Land.
The Three Oaths Shape Theology
- The Three Oaths from Ketubot 111a are treated by some Haredim as a divine prohibition on mass return to Israel.
- These oaths underpin theological objections to proactive Jewish sovereignty before the Messiah.
