Faithful Allies: The Religious Roots of America’s Unwavering Support for Israel
Across various religious denominations, theological beliefs significantly influence political and moral perspectives regarding Israel. Some of these theological stances motivate unwavering support for Israel, while others encourage a more nuanced or critical approach. This chapter seeks to unpack the primary theological underpinnings that drive pro-Israel sentiments, predominantly from a Christian and Jewish perspective.
1. Biblical Promises and Covenants
- Abrahamic Covenant: Both Jews and Christians believe in the promise God made to Abraham in the Book of Genesis: “To your offspring, I will give this land” (Genesis 12:7). This divine promise often forms the foundational scriptural basis for supporting Israel’s right to the land.
- Mosaic and Davidic Covenants: The covenant at Mount Sinai and the promise of a lasting Davidic dynasty further solidify the biblical narrative of a special relationship between God, the people of Israel, and the land of Israel.
2. Christian Zionism
- Premillennial Dispensationalism: This theological perspective, especially prevalent among evangelical Christians, posits distinct eras (or “dispensations”) in which God interacts with humanity. A key tenet is the belief that the establishment and prosperity of modern-day Israel are prerequisites for the second coming of Christ.
- Biblical Literalism: Many Christian Zionists interpret biblical prophecies about Israel’s restoration in a literal sense, viewing modern political events as the fulfillment of ancient scriptures.
3. Jewish Theological Views
- Divine Promise and Return: Traditional Jewish thought holds that the land of Israel was divinely promised to the Jewish people. The return from exile—whether understood historically or messianically—is a recurring theme in Jewish liturgy and thought.
- Religious Zionism: Merging Zionist aspirations with religious beliefs, religious Zionists see the establishment and flourishing of the State of Israel as part of the unfolding divine redemption process.
4. Eschatological Expectations
- End Times and Israel: Various Christian denominations believe that specific events in Israel, such as the gathering of Jews in their ancestral land and the rebuilding of the Temple, will precede the end times, culminating in the return of Christ.
- Jewish Messianic Anticipation: Some Jewish sects and groups anticipate a messianic era where the full ingathering of the exiles in Israel will take place, accompanied by an era of global peace and divine revelation.
5. Theological Commitment to Peace
- Biblical Vision of Peace: Scriptures in both the Old and New Testaments (e.g., Isaiah’s vision of the lion laying down with the lamb, and Christ as the “Prince of Peace”) underpin a belief in a divinely ordained peace for Israel and its neighbors. This theological stance drives efforts among many believers to actively pursue and pray for peace in the region.
6. The Role of Jerusalem
- Spiritual Center: Jerusalem holds profound significance in Jewish, Christian, and also Islamic traditions. The city’s role as the spiritual epicenter, combined with its historical and prophetic significance, often intensifies theological support for Israel.
Conclusion
Theological beliefs provide a complex and multi-layered backdrop to the perspectives and passions surrounding Israel. While many of these beliefs drive support for Israel, they also coexist with a myriad of political, historical, and socio-cultural factors that shape the discourse. Recognizing the depth and diversity of these theological perspectives is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the enduring ties and fervent support for Israel among various religious groups.