The Tom Woods Show Ep. 2709 Zionism Stole Jewish Identity, with Rabbi Yaakov Shapiro
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Nov 15, 2025 Rabbi Yaakov Shapiro, a pulpit rabbi and author of The Empty Wagon, delves into the complexities of Zionism and its impact on Jewish identity. He argues that deeper study often leads Orthodox Jews to question Zionism. The conversation touches on whether a Jewish state serves as a practical safety measure and how Zionism redefines what it means to be Jewish. Shapiro also discusses the theological implications of Zionism and its idolizing aspects, alongside the nation-building tactics that create a new cultural identity.
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Zionism Raises Jewish Risk, Not Lowers It
- Rabbi Yaakov Shapiro argues Zionism increased danger for Jews rather than reduced it, citing higher Jewish deaths in Israel since 1948.
- He challenges the insurance-style justification for a Jewish state by asking when the security 'premium' becomes too costly.
Zionism Redefined Jewish Identity
- Shapiro says Zionism fundamentally redefines 'Jew' from a religious covenant to a nationality.
- He frames that redefinition as the main objection, shifting Jewish identity away from Torah-based obligations.
Israeli Law Frames Jews As A Nation
- Israeli law treats 'Jewish' as a nationality and grants self-determination rights only to Jews.
- Shapiro highlights the 2018 Nation-State Law as codifying exclusivity of collective rights for Jews.
