Political violence, political ends: the story of the Zealots’ underground

This article sheds light on a historical episode that has garnered minimal academic focus: the emergence and activities of Brit Ha-Kanaim (Alliance of the Zealots) a religious underground active in Jerusalem from 1950–1951. Advocating for the Jewish halakha to become the law in Israel, they committed a series of violent acts aimed at reshaping the relationship between state and religion. This research situates Brit Ha-Kanaim’s actions within the wider framework of political violence, showcasing a unique blend of religious fervor and nationalism. It underscores their distinctive presence amidst the violent occurrences of that era, identifying them as Israel’s pioneering example of violence fueled by religious fanaticism intertwined with nationalistic ambition.