Arutz Sheva Opinion
Kislev 30, 5776,
12/12/15 11:01
The continuing failure
to confront radical Islam
Matthew M. Hausman
After a recent trip to
Israel, former Congresswoman Michele Bachmann reportedly called upon Christians
to step up efforts to convert the Jews. Her pronouncement was met with
indignation from across the Jewish political spectrum – and deservedly so, as
it displayed a patronizing and flawed understanding of Jewish scripture and
history. But as misguided as it certainly was, it was not a call to
pogrom or massacre; and while Jews have every right to be offended, such comments
are benign, albeit insulting, and pose no threat to Jewish life, limb, or
belief.
Ironically, few of those
who criticized Bachmann would ever chastise those Muslims who preach doctrinal
supremacism or reject the very concept of a Jewish state. Nor would they
denounce leftist ideologues who defend progressive anti-Semitism as political
speech or delegitimize Israel. The question, then, is how they can
reconcile assertive condemnations of Christian missionary zeal with apologetic
attitudes towards radical Islam and a refusal to acknowledge the religious
basis for much of today’s terrorism.
As suggested by ongoing
dialogue between the nontraditional movements and dubious Muslim advocacy
organizations, and by liberal support for progressive groups like the New Israel
Fund, there seems to be growing tolerance for agendas that conflict with Jewish
sovereignty and national claims. There is also a tendency to express
admiration for Islamic values while ignoring troubling dogmas that discourage
free speech and demonize Jews.
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