The religious Jews were initially against Zionism because they believed in a traditional premise of Kalmudic Judaism where God made a deal with the nations not to oppress Jews too much in exchange for the Jews not hurrying God's plan to bring them back to Zion. The concept of Israel was seen as a violation of this belief as it implied Jews trying to return to Zion on their own, breaking the deal according to traditional Judaism.
As Israel turns 75, has it fulfilled the promise of its founders? Daniel Gordis of Shalem College talks about his book, Impossible Takes Longer, with EconTalk's Russ Roberts looking at the successes and failures of Israel. Topics discussed include the history of Zionism, the plight of the Palestinians, the Jewishness of the Jewish state, and the current debate in Israel over judicial reform.