Religious Jews protecting Palestinians

This article, by Nir Hasson, is a fascinating set of personal arguments from some Jewish Israelis who are protesting the evacuation of Palestinian residents of Sheikh Jarrah (a neighborhood in East Jerusalem). "The Orthodox Jews fighting the Judaization of East Jerusalem" The article is long, but well worth the read.

I think about this question sometimes... wondering why some of the 'most religious' among the Jews are the ones living in settlements in the West Bank, and treating Palestinians as less than human beings. I know that many religious Jews would disagree, and say that the settlers believe an incorrect version of the Torah. But one cannot deny that some interpretations of the Torah are spurring this settler movement on; particularly the belief that Jews should conquer and inhabit all of the land of Israel.

It seems that every religion has currents, controversies and sects. Just as Islam's image was betrayed by the atrocities committed by some extremist Muslims, Jews who are violent settlers are betraying a much more loving side of Judaism. Christianity also has its own number of extremists, blaming Katrina's destruction on homosexuals for example. Each religion has those who use the religion's texts as evidence for their black-and-white version of the world.

That's why hearing stories of Jews who share a strong love for God and for Israel can be uplifting, because they can still stand up for the rights of Palestinians. As one man says in the article: in Sheikh Jarrah there is no mistaking the bad guys from the good guys. Just as in the West Bank settlements, there is no mistaking the settlers as the bad guys and the Palestinians as the good guys. Absolutely no mistaking: and if you came and saw for yourself, you would agree. No matter your political background or previous understanding of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, there is no mistaking oppression when you see it face-to-face.

Though I confess being ignorant of most things in Judaism, I feel that no matter what, God wants us to treat other human beings as human beings - with respect and love. Despite any other precept He may have set out for us, this is the first - in Islam, Christianity and Judaism. I wish these Jews who are advocating the humanity of Palestinians all the strength they need, and wish more religious Jews in the settlements would examine all the precepts in Judaism, not just those that tell them to conquer the land.