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Rabbi Kook Builder and Dreamer of Zion

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Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook forged a revolutionary synthesis between traditional Judaism and modern Zionism during the pivotal early decades of Jewish settlement in Palestine. As the first Chief Rabbi of Palestine, he navigated the intense divide between orthodox pietists and secular pioneers by developing a mystical vision of Jewish nationalism rooted in Kabbalistic tradition. Through extensive analysis of his correspondence and theological writings, this research reveals Kook's radical reimagining of the Jewish people as more than a conventional nation - rather as the embodiment of universal human ideals destined to manifest divine holiness through return to the Holy Land. His theological framework integrated traditional orthodoxy, Jewish nationalism, and liberal humanism, viewing Zionism as a transitional phase in fulfilling Judaism's authentic spiritual mission. While challenging both secular Zionists who reduced Jewish identity to mere nationalism and orthodox isolationists who shunned modernity, Kook demonstrated practical leadership through innovative halakhic rulings, including the controversial takanna permitting agricultural work during sabbatical years. His synthesis of religious mysticism with practical Zionism created an influential theological model that transcended conventional religious-secular divisions, offering a unique vision for Jewish spiritual renewal in the modern era.

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    Published 1965

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  • Publication Credits

    Ben Bokser