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Robert B. Sklaroff, M.D.
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The American Council for Judaism The ACJ has maintained an anti-Zionist posture throughout its existence; it originated from (and tries mightily to influence) Reform Judaism. Much of the information it disseminates emphasizes the "universalistic" philosophies (shared by "secularists" and "humanists"), but it eschews recognition that Israel carries particular relevance to all Jewry. One essay on Classical Reform Judaism expresses the belief that Jewish nationalism is incompatible with the classical principles of Reform Judaism. Another historical review argues in favor of the restoration of this approach. An essay by Rabbi Paul Golumb also elucidates the anti-Zionist posture (in updated terms). And "Jewish Nationalism" is condemned. Rabbi Louis Wolsey, D.D., (Rabbi Emeritus of Congregation Rodeph Shalom, Philadelphia, Pa.) had been a leader in the ACJ, but subsequently repudiated its goals. A startling set of information and quotations is available in a comprehensive condemnation of Zionism, which contains many inaccuracies (such as the allegation that many people, such as Einstein and Buber, were anti-Zionist). It also includes, however, the following insight that might explain why the New York Times is so critical of Israel: "In 1943, a group of 92 Reform rabbis, and many other prominent American Jews, created the American Council for Judaism with the express intent of combating Zionism. Included in the Council's leadership were Rabbi Morris S. Lazar on of Baltimore; Lessing J. Rosenwald, the former chairman of the Sears, Roebuck & Company, who became president of the Council; Rabbi Elmer Berger who became its executive director; Arthur Hays Sulzberger, publisher of The New York Times; and Sidney Wallach of the American Jewish Committee."
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To contact me--Robert B. Sklaroff, M.D.--just send an e-mail (rsklaroff@comcast.net).
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