The Peace and Violence of Judaism

Abstract

Abstract This study provides a comprehensive analysis of Jewish views on peace and violence. It examines five major thought-worlds in Judaism—the Bible, rabbinic Judaism, medieval Jewish philosophy, Kabbalah, and modern Zionism—and it demonstrates that each of these thought-worlds exhibits ambiguity regarding peace and violence. To make this case, an unusual format has been adopted. Two separate analyses are presented for each of the thought-worlds: one that argues for a peaceful reading of Judaism, and another that argues for a violent reading. The aim is to show that both readings are valid and authentic interpretations of Judaism. The study also explores why Judaism is so ambiguous on the issues of peace and violence by examining the interpretive methods that support each reading. These include such techniques as the selection of texts that support a viewpoint, selective emphasis on some texts at the expense of others, and the use of historical context to give meaning to a text. This study is relevant not just for Judaism. Other religions exhibit the same ambiguities that Judaism does when it comes to peace and violence. This study is therefore meant to provide a model for the analysis of other religious traditions as well.

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