The Hasidic Jews and the Zionists: A Comparison of Two Different Groups

1. Introduction

It is easy to notice in daily life that individuals behave differently when they act as members of their reference groups compared to how they act on their own. In the novel “Chosen”, by Chaim Potok, this idea is explored in depth through the protagonist, Reuven Malter. Reuven is a Hasidic Jew living in Brooklyn in the 1940s. He befriends a boy from the rival group, Danny Saunders, and through their relationship, comes to understand the views of both groups on society.

2. Authority

The Hasidic Jews are led by a Rebbe, who has absolute authority over his followers. The Rebbe is considered to be a holy man, and his word is law. The Hasidim believe that the Rebbe has a direct line to God, and that he knows what is best for them. They do not question his authority, and they follow his orders without question.

The rival group, the Zionists, are led by a different kind of authority figure. They have no leader with absolute power, but instead elect their leaders democratically. They believe that each individual has the right to think for themselves, and that no one person should have complete control over others.

3. Society

The Hasidic Jews live apart from the rest of society. They do not participate in secular activities, and they do not associate with people outside their community. They believe that the secular world is evil and corrupt, and that it will lead them astray from their religious beliefs.

The Zionists, on the other hand, believe that Jews should participate in society as equals with everyone else. They do not see the secular world as evil, but as something to be engaged with and improved. They want Jews to be full members of society, and to be proud of their heritage and culture.

4. The Church

The Hasidim believe that the church is a primitive and brutal institution that is unenlightened and does not understand the true nature of God. They believe that the church persecutes Jews, and that it is responsible for much of the suffering in the world. They do not have any contact with the church, and they avoid its members whenever possible.

The Zionists do not share this view of the church. They believe that the church can be a force for good in society, and that it can help promote understanding between different groups of people. They are willing to work with the church on issues of common concern, such as promoting religious tolerance and combating antisemitism.

5. Law Enforcement

The Hasidic Jews do not trust law enforcement officers, and they believe that they are often corrupt and abusive. They avoid contact with them whenever possible, and they do not cooperate with them when they are investigating crimes.

The Zionists have a different view of law enforcement officers. They believe that they are usually fair and just, and that they can be trusted to protect Jewish communities from violence and bigotry. They are willing to work with law enforcement officers to ensure that Jewish neighborhoods are safe places to live.

6. Food and Shelter

The Hasidic Jews believe that food and shelter are basic necessities of life, and that it is the responsibility of the community to provide for its members. They do not believe in private ownership of property, and they believe that everyone should share in the resources of the community.

The Zionists believe that people have the right to own property, and that they should be able to keep the fruits of their labor. They believe that private ownership motivates people to work hard and improve their lot in life. They do not believe that the community should provide for its members, but that each individual should be responsible for their own welfare.

7. Conclusion

The Hasidic Jews and the Zionists are two different groups with very different views on society. The Hasidim view society as a corrupt and evil institution that is responsible for much of the suffering in the world. The Zionists view society as something to be engaged with and improved. Both groups have their own strengths and weaknesses, but ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide which group they want to belong to.

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