American Jewish Community Reacts to Rising Anti-Zionism

This month, Kehillat Israel, a prominent California Reconstructionist synagogue, severed its ties with its national organization over concerns about the seminary’s promotion of anti-Israel rabbis. This bold move signals a shift within American Jewish circles, highlighting frustration with the infiltration of anti-Zionist rhetoric among some rabbis.

Rabbi Amy Bernstein of Kehillat Israel explained the decision, citing her disappointment with Reconstructionist leaders fostering intolerance against Israel. “Their use of titles to incite hatred against the Jewish state is unacceptable,” she said. The congregation, comprising 930 families, sought to take a stand after years of reflection, feeling that their values no longer aligned with the movement’s direction.

Historically, Reconstructionism emphasized Jewish culture and evolving identity, not opposition to Israel. However, its rabbinical seminary now admits students openly critical of Zionism, raising concerns about the movement’s future and influence on younger generations.

The departure comes amid broader tensions within American Jewry, where some progressive denominations appear to tolerate, or even endorse, anti-Zionist positions. Despite only a small percentage of U.S. Jews identifying as Reconstructionist, some believe this stance influences larger groups like Reform Judaism, which claims around 2 million members.

Leaders like Rabbi Ammiel Hirsch of Manhattan’s Stephen Wise Free Synagogue have publicly called for clearer boundaries against anti-Zionist rhetoric. Yet, institutional responses from major seminaries remain cautious, avoiding definitive condemnations of extremism.

The controversy underscores a dilemma: balancing inclusivity with the need to uphold Jewish national and cultural integrity. Bernstein expressed hope that Kehillat Israel’s courageous stand will inspire others to set firm boundaries and reaffirm support for Israel’s legitimacy.