Anarchism and Orthodox Judaism

Anarchism And Orthodox Judaism

This article describes some views of notable Orthodox Jewish figures who supported anarchism, as well as various themes within the scope of the Orthodox Jewish tradition or among the practicing Orthodox Jews that are generally considered important from the anarchist worldview. As it is often the case with pro-anarchist movements and personal anarchist opinions in spiritual traditions, authoritative organized Orthodox Jewish bodies may view some of the views described here as marginal. Anarchism found a number of notable supporters among the Orthodox Jews in the first half of the 20th century; On the other hand, a number of notable secular Jewish anti-authoritarians noticed some anarchic tendencies in traditional Judaism.

One post-denominational movement in Judaism, where the views described in this article are common, is Jewish Renewal or Neo-Hasidism.

While there is no organized Orthodox Jewish anarchist movement similar to Christian anarchist movements, a number of pro-anarchistic ideas are found in the works of some Kabbalists and Hasidic teachers, as well as in the Jewish folk religion. A few Jewish mystical groups in Antiquity were based on anti-authoritarian or radically communal principles, somewhat similar to the Christian Quakers, Dukhobors and other similar movements. Some secular Jewish anarchists, such as Abba Gordin and Erich Fromm, noticed similarity between anarchism and Jewish mysticism. Martin Buber, a deeply religious philosopher, although not an Orthodox Jew, was greatly influenced by the Hasidic tradition and often refers to it.

Some Jewish anarchists of the 20th century had explicitly combined contemporary radical thought with traditional Judaism, insisting that, in their view, Judaism calls for abolition of the state, private property and class society. These Orthodox Jewish anarchists personally observed the Halacha, but supported the social system of communist anarchism or anarcho-syndicalism.

Read more about Anarchism And Orthodox Judaism:  Orthodox Jews and Anti-authoritarian Left, Historical and Legendary Communities, Quotes, Orthodox Jewish Anarchists

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