Lerner on ‘Settler Judaism’

Re “ ‘Settler Judaism’ Exposes the Hypocrisy of Jewish Unity,” Commentary, Dec. 10:

Michael Lerner asserts the “climate of violence” that led to Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin’s murder is rooted in what he calls “Settler Judaism.” He blames people who were up to a few years ago considered heroes, with the Israeli government’s blessing.

It is critical to point out that prior to 1967, Israel did not occupy the West Bank. It was controlled by Jordan, as was East Jerusalem. Israel was invaded by its enemies. The land now referred to as the West Bank was forfeited by the Arabs when they chose to wage war on Israel.

Lerner claims “Settler Judaism” is dangerous to Jews because it reinforces the tendency of Jews to deny their real power and continue to see themselves as victims who then justify the use of violence.

In other words, being defensive, a basic instinct for survival, is politically incorrect behavior. Last month Israel’s potential peace partner, Syria, sanctioned its puppet state Lebanon, under the auspices of Hezbollah, to fire missiles into northern Israel, sending people into underground shelters (Nov. 29).

According to Lerner’s logic, Jews must put aside these realities and simply “love the stranger,” as his brand of Renewal Judaism preaches, even when the stranger is bent on the destruction of Jews.

Incidentally, the PLO has yet to amend its charter that calls for Israel’s destruction.

DEBORAH LURYA

Irvine

It is refreshing to read such heart-warming, wonderful ideas. While I totally agree with everything written by such a thoughtful, compassionate and distinguished gentleman of Jewish faith, as a Muslim, I urge Muslim leaders, particularly of the Shiite sect, Christian and Hindu leaders, to come forward and publicly denounce violence, issuing directives to their followers never to use violence as a means to achieve their objectives.

At the same time as advocating love and compassion for others, so we may have peace in Bosnia, the Middle East, Northern Ireland, the Philippines and Kashmir, to mention a few spots in the world where religions are causes of conflicts, and the religions’ leaders are singularly to be blamed.

MAJID AMINI

Agoura