“Amotz Asa-El’s Book Examines Jewish Political Challenges Across Millennia”

In a thought-provoking exploration of Jewish history and politics, Amotz Asa-El’s book, “The Jewish March of Folly,” delves into the recurring themes of internal conflict and political challenges faced by Jewish communities throughout history. Asa-El, a seasoned commentator for The Jerusalem Post, presents a compelling argument that Jewish history is marked by a series of internal struggles, often exacerbated by a historical aversion to political engagement.

Published initially in Hebrew in 2019, the book gained traction for its bold thesis: a deep-seated, often self-inflicted, disdain for politics among Jewish communities, which has been both a historical and cultural phenomenon. Asa-El’s motivation for writing the book stems from his extensive experience in covering Israeli politics, where he frequently encountered resistance and narrow-mindedness, reinforcing his belief in the persistent influence of anarchism, tribalism, and factionalism.

The release of an updated English version coincides with significant political upheavals, such as the judicial reform debates and the tragic events of October 7, 2023, which have intensified discussions around Zionism and its implications. Asa-El’s work is not a conventional historical account; instead, it challenges readers to reconsider the narrative of Jewish history, focusing on internal conflicts rather than external adversities.

Drawing inspiration from Barbara Tuchman’s “The March of Folly,” Asa-El expands the scope to encompass a vast timeline, from biblical times to modern figures like Albert Einstein. His analysis is a rich reexamination of biblical events, shedding light on the numerous civil wars and internal conflicts that have shaped Jewish history.

Asa-El’s work invites readers to reflect on the lessons of the past, urging a reevaluation of political engagement and unity. In the spirit of biblical wisdom, such as Micah 6:8’s call for justice, mercy, and humility, Asa-El’s narrative encourages a pursuit of peace and reconciliation within and beyond Jewish communities.

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