Natan Sharansky: 'If you don't have faith or Zionism, your grandchildren will not be Jewish'

Natan Sharansky: 'If you don't have faith or Zionism, your grandchildren will not be Jewish'

Author: 18Forty January 20, 2025 Duration: 1:08:17
Antisemitism and assimilation are threatening the Jewish People, says Natan Sharansky, but to both Israel offers a solution.

Born in the Soviet Union and imprisoned by the authorities when trying to immigrate to Israel, Sharansky experienced brutal interrogations, forced feedings, and torture — sparking international campaigns to fight for his freedom in 1986. 

Today, Natan is Chairman for the Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism and Policy and has an extensive record as a human rights activist, Israeli politician, and advocate for the Jewish People. He is the recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor in 1986 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2006. 

Now, he joins Sruli Fruchter to answer 18 questions on Israel, including anti-Zionism, hostage negotiations, and the threats of antisemitism and assimilation. 

This interview was held on Jan. 13.

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Here are our 18 questions:
  1. As an Israeli, and as a Jew, how are you feeling at this moment in Israeli history?
  2. What has been Israel’s greatest success and greatest mistake in its war against Hamas?
  3. How do you think Hamas views the outcome and aftermath of October 7—was it a success, in their eyes?
  4.  What do you look for in deciding which Knesset party to vote for?
  5. Which is more important for Israel: Judaism or democracy?
  6. Should Israel treat its Jewish and non-Jewish citizens the same?
  7. What role should the Israeli government have in religious matters?
  8. Now that Israel already exists, what is the purpose of Zionism?
  9. Is opposing Zionism inherently antisemitic?
  10. Is the IDF the world’s most moral army?
  11. If you were making the case for Israel, where would you begin?
  12. Can questioning the actions of Israel’s government and army — even in the context of this war — be a valid form of love and patriotism?
  13. What do you think is the most legitimate criticism leveled against Israel today?
  14. Do you think peace between Israelis and Palestinians will happen within your lifetime?
  15. What should happen with Gaza and the Palestinian-Israeli conflict after the war?
  16. Is Israel properly handling the Iranian threat?
  17. Where do you identify on Israel’s political and religious spectrum, and do you have friends on the “other side”?
  18. Do you have more hope or fear for Israel and the Jewish People?

What does it mean to live a meaningful life? How do we navigate doubt, find purpose, or understand suffering? 18 Questions, 40 Mystics explores these profound human inquiries through a distinctly Jewish mystical lens. Hosted by Rabbi Benji Levy, this series from 18Forty engages in deep, personal conversations with a diverse global community of thinkers-including rabbis, kabbalists, artists, and teachers-each deeply immersed in mystical tradition. The format is elegantly simple yet expansive: eighteen core existential questions posed to forty different voices, yielding a rich tapestry of perspectives drawn from ancient wisdom and contemporary experience. Listeners will encounter discussions that weave together spirituality, daily practice, and the inner dimensions of faith known as pnimiyut. This isn't about abstract theory; it's about the practical and soulful insights that arise when earnest questioning meets lived spiritual knowledge. Whether you're well-versed in Jewish texts or simply curious about the intersection of mysticism and modern life, each episode offers a unique point of reflection and inspiration. The conversations are intimate and revealing, designed not to provide monolithic answers but to illuminate the many paths toward understanding. Tune in for a journey that is as much about the questions we all share as it is about the diverse, thoughtful responses from those who have dedicated their lives to contemplation. This podcast serves as a rare gateway into the minds and hearts of today's leading mystical practitioners.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 74

18 Questions, 40 Mystics
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