The Rise of Zionism

After a holiday season filled with travel, celebration, and intensity, this week was a (relatively) quiet one.

We spent four consecutive days on campus — a rare treat! During this time, we continued our studies in Jewish history, focusing on Jewish life throughout the Middle Ages — its challenges, resilience, and remarkable achievements.

We then explored the Enlightenment and the emancipation of the Jews from the ghettos of Europe. There was great hope that modernity would bring full equality and acceptance, but sadly, these hopes were soon challenged by new forms of hatred rooted in nationalism, racial theories, and political scapegoating.

Out of this difficult chapter in history emerged a new Jewish political, cultural, and spiritual movement: Zionism.

To explore and celebrate the many voices and visions within Zionism, we held our Zionism Seminar on Tuesday. Students were divided into groups, each assigned a key Zionist thinker to research. They then brought their learning to life through creative skits, PowerPoint presentations, songs, and beautifully designed posters. We wrapped up the day by gathering to share and enjoy everyone’s creative work.

On Thursday, we headed north to the Kinneret (Sea of Galilee) — the birthplace of the first Zionist kibbutzim. Around the southern shores of the lake, nearly 120 years ago, young pioneers came together to farm, study, and build the foundations of the socialist-Zionist communes that shaped modern Israel. We explored their stories, songs, and poetry — and of course, enjoyed a refreshing swim in the Kinneret!

This Shabbat is an open Shabbat, giving students the option to visit friends and family or enjoy some peaceful rest on campus.

Shabbat Shalom and all the blessings!