Religious Zionism’s Triple Cord

Religious Zionism’s Triple Cord

Author: Tradition Online March 18, 2025 Duration: 32:01
In this episode of the Tradition Podcast, our associate editor Yitzchak Blau interviews author, researcher, and Makor Rishon columnist Yair Sheleg about his recent Hebrew book HaHut HaMeshulash, whose English title might be offered as The Triple Chord: A Short History of Religious Zionism (Kinneret-Zmora, 2024). Rav Kook believed that Religious Zionism combines elements of religion, nationalism, and liberalism. In HaHut HaMeshulash Sheleg asks if contemporary Religious Zionism has remained loyal to this triple mission. If not, why not—and where has it fallen short? Blau and Sheleg also discuss the relationship between American Modern Orthodoxy and Israeli Religious Zionism—how do they overlap and how do they differ? Sheleg’s had published an essay at TraditionOnline before the book appeared that outlined his basic thesis; Blau had reviewed Sheleg’s book when it was published a few months ago as part of his fascinating Alt+Shift series (he also reviewed Sheleg’s earlier work on Hardalim, or Ultra-Orthodox Zionism). The post Religious Zionism’s Triple Cord appeared first on Tradition Online.

The Tradition Podcast extends the deep, considered conversation of its long-standing journal into an audio format. Each episode draws from the rich well of Orthodox Jewish thought, but frames these ideas for a contemporary listener grappling with modern questions. You'll hear discussions that sit at the intersection of ancient texts and present-day life, where timeless philosophy meets current ethical dilemmas, historical context informs cultural shifts, and spiritual inquiry finds practical expression. This isn't about delivering simple answers, but rather exploring the nuanced arguments and diverse perspectives that have defined a living tradition for centuries. The podcast naturally delves into the same rigorous topics as the journal-Jewish law, theology, societal trends, and moral philosophy-but with the accessible, engaging flow of a spoken dialogue. It’s for anyone curious about how a vibrant intellectual and religious tradition navigates the complexities of the human experience, offering thoughtful reflection that resonates far beyond the page. Tune in for a series that honors the depth of its source material while creating a new space for auditory learning and reflection.
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