Faith Against Occupation: The Courage of Jewish Activists in the West Bank

In the midst of rising tensions and violence in the West Bank, a small but significant group of Jewish activists is standing up to extremist settlers, driven by their faith rather than ideology. Ziva Sharp’s commitment to her Judaism has led her to risk injury while defending Palestinians from settler attacks. Her words - “we are supposed to be part of tzelem elokim (the image of God), and to follow God’s ways, which are pity, compassion, and justice” - echo the voices of a growing number within Israel who are challenging the status quo.

This movement, Bnei Avraham (Children of Abraham), emerged four years ago as a response to the injustices faced by Palestinians under Israeli occupation. Unlike the broader peace movement, these activists draw on their faith to confront the harsh realities of settler violence and land confiscation. Their actions are not without risks: settlers have attacked them with stones, pepper spray, and sticks.

Many of these activists come from a religious Zionist background, where they were taught that Judaism demands obedience to authority and expansion into the Holy Land. Yet, as Avishai Liss explains, “I feel as a Jewish person, as a Zionist, that what’s happening now in the West Bank is not Jewish. And it’s definitely not moral.” This transformation reflects a deeper questioning of what it means to be Jewish and how their faith should inform their actions.

The Israeli government’s policies are driving this occupation forward, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s right-wing administration advancing settlement construction ahead of October 27 elections. The consequences are dire: violence against Palestinians by settlers has increased dramatically since the October 2023 attack on Israel by Hamas from the Gaza Strip. It is clear that the current trajectory will only exacerbate the conflict.

Bnei Avraham’s message is one of hope and challenge to their fellow Jews who may be complicit in or indifferent to these injustices. As Dror Nadel notes, “religion is a really beautiful thing, but it can lead you in really wrong directions.” By re-examining their faith and its teachings, these activists are seeking to reclaim a Judaism that emphasizes compassion, justice, and coexistence.

The activists face intimidation from settlers and criticism from within their own community for “helping the enemy” or “betraying Israel.” Yet, they remain undeterred by obstacles or threats. Their commitment to peace and human rights is evident in their actions on the ground in the West Bank.

Their bravery highlights the importance of faith-based activism in promoting change. By drawing on their religious convictions to challenge unjust policies and practices, these activists are showing that even within a context marked by occupation and conflict, there is room for hope and redemption. As they stand up against settler violence, we see that faith can be both a source of strength and a catalyst for transformation.

The actions of Bnei Avraham’s members will not go unnoticed; their courage will continue to inspire others to join the struggle for justice in the West Bank. Their message - that Judaism demands compassion and coexistence with all people, regardless of nationality or faith - will resonate far beyond the confines of the region.

In standing up against hatred and violence, these activists remind us that even the most entrenched conflicts can be transformed by the courage of those who refuse to surrender. As they face their challenges head-on, they embody the true spirit of Abraham’s children: courageous, compassionate, and willing to challenge entrenched ideologies for a brighter future.