About this episode
Disentangling Judaism from the Violence of Occupation “The way to manifest your sacredness is to embody sacredness – to treat all life as sacred.” – Rabbi Cat Zavis In this live SAND Community Gathering (October 2024) Zaya and Maurizio Benazzo were in discussion with Rabbi Cat Zavis, a renowned Jewsish teacher, writer, and social justice activist. They discussed the misuse of Judaism to justify the brutal Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories. Drawing on deep Jewish ethical traditions of justice and compassion, Rabbi Zavis showed how the occupation fundamentally contradicts core Jewish values. We explored the rich history of Jewish opposition to occupation and highlight contemporary movements working to honor Judaism’s ethical mandate, “Never Again” for anyone. Rabbi Cat Zavis is a passionate shaper of Jewish rituals and services that inspire and draw connections between the spiritual, personal, and political. She is a spiritual social justice activist, attorney, and visionary leader with over 20 years experience in empathic and people-centered leadership and collaboration. A sought after facilitator and trainer in nonviolent communication, prophetic empathy, collaboration, and conflict resolution, she has over 25 years experience working with and helping people understand our shared needs and how to challenge manifestations of othering and build beloved communities of belonging. While co-editor of Tikkun magazine, she wrote articles and helped shape the magazine; as Executive Director of the Network of Spiritual Progressives she has trained over 1000 people in Prophetic Empathy and Revolutionary Love. Support the mission of SAND and the production of this podcast by becoming a SAND Member . Resources Tikkun Beyt Tikkun Roots (1977 Miniseries) One Hundred Years War on Palestine by Rasheed Khalidi Jewish Voices for Peace SAND’s Helpful Resources on Palestine Topics 00:00 – Introduction and Greetings 00:31 – Current Situation in Gaza 01:58 – Introducing Rabbi Cat Zavis 02:16 – Rabbi Cat Zavis' Background 05:17 – Personal Journey and Reflections 12:11 – Jewish Ethical Values and Israeli Occupation 15:58 – The Split in the Jewish Community 24:54 – Truth, Justice, and Peace in Judaism 27:07 – Pursuing Truth and Justice 28:01 – Condemnation of Israeli Actions 29:43 – Judaism vs. Zionism 30:47 – Anti-Zionist Jewish Thinkers 32:08 – Theological Perspectives on Zionism 34:33 – Solidarity and Liberation 40:59 – The Role of Fear and Trauma 45:21 – Call for International Intervention 47:34 – Practical Support for Palestinian Rights 49:33 – Spiritual Reflections and Blessings