Meir Kahane

Meir Kahane

Meir Kahane was born on August 1st, 1932

Full Name: Meir David Kahane
Place of Birth: Brooklyn, New York
Profession: Rabbi, Politician
Nationality: American-Israeli
Political Party: Kach
Zodiac Sign: Leo
Education: Mir Yeshiva
Notable Work: Jewish Defense League

A radical rabbi who founded a militant Jewish organization to protect Jews from anti-Semitism, known for his controversial and violent methods.

Written by: Jack Thompson Jack Thompson

Meir Kahane: The Controversial Rabbi and Ultranationalist Politician

Meir Kahane is best known for his radical views on Jewish nationalism and his role in founding the Israeli political party Kach, as well as the Jewish Defense League (JDL) in the United States. As an ordained Orthodox rabbi, writer, and politician, Kahane's life work was marked by controversy, conviction, and passionate advocacy for the Jewish people.

Early Life and Education

Meir David HaKohen Kahane was born Martin David Kahane on August 1, 1932, to a family of Orthodox Jews in Brooklyn, New York. He received his rabbinic ordination from the Mir Yeshiva in Brooklyn and later studied at the New York University School of Law.

Founding the Jewish Defense League

In 1968, Kahane co-founded the JDL, an organization dedicated to combating antisemitism and promoting Jewish self-defense. The JDL's militant tactics and Kahane's fiery rhetoric often landed him in hot water with law enforcement and the broader Jewish community.

Kach Party and Political Career

In 1971, Kahane co-founded the Kach party in Israel, which advocated for the annexation of the West Bank and Gaza Strip, as well as the restriction of Israeli democracy to Jewish citizens. In 1984, Kahane became a member of the Knesset, Israel's parliament, when Kach gained its only seat in parliamentary elections.

Convictions and Controversies

Kahane's political career was marked by several convictions, including a suspended sentence for conspiracy to manufacture explosives in the United States and a suspended sentence and probation for plotting to blow up the Libyan embassy in Brussels. He was also boycotted by his peers in the Knesset and largely ignored by the Israeli media.

Philosophical Contributions and Beliefs

Kahane was a strong advocate for Jewish self-defense and believed in the importance of a strong, unified Jewish people. He popularized the slogans "Never Again" and "For Every Jew a .22," which reflected his views on Jewish empowerment and defense. Kahane's philosophy was shaped by his experiences as a rabbi, his concern for the safety of Jews worldwide, and his advocacy for a more assertive Jewish identity.

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

Legacy and Impact

Meir Kahane's legacy is complex and multifaceted. While some view him as a champion of Jewish rights and self-defense, others see him as a radical and divisive figure. Regardless, Kahane's influence on Israeli politics and Jewish identity cannot be overstated. His life work continues to inspire both admiration and criticism, ensuring his place as one of the most controversial figures in modern Jewish history.

Timeline
1932
Born in Brooklyn
Meir Kahane was born on August 1st in Brooklyn, New York. He would go on to become a prominent rabbi and activist.
1950
Founded Jewish Defense League
Kahane founded the Jewish Defense League, a militant organization dedicated to protecting Jewish communities and promoting Zionism.
1960
Moved to Israel
Kahane moved to Israel, where he continued to advocate for Jewish rights and established the Kach party.
1980
Served in Israeli Knesset
Kahane served in the Israeli Knesset, becoming a prominent and controversial figure in Israeli politics.
1990
Assassinated
Meir Kahane was assassinated on November 5th at the age of 58, leaving behind a legacy of controversy and activism.
Meir Kahane

Meir Kahane Quiz

What was Meir Kahane's primary goal with his militant Jewish organization?

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FAQ
What were Meir Kahanes views on Jewish identity and nationalism?
Meir Kahane was a vocal advocate for Jewish nationalism and the establishment of a Jewish state, believing that Jews should prioritize their own self-defense and security.
What was Meir Kahanes role in the Jewish Defense League?
Kahane founded the Jewish Defense League, a militant organization aimed at protecting Jewish communities and promoting Jewish pride and self-defense.
What was Meir Kahanes stance on Arab-Israeli relations?
Kahane took a hardline stance on Arab-Israeli relations, advocating for the transfer of Arabs from Israel and the establishment of a Jewish state based on biblical principles.
What was Meir Kahanes relationship with the Israeli government?
Kahanes views were often at odds with those of the Israeli government, which he saw as too compromising on issues of Jewish security and self-defense.
What was Meir Kahanes early life and education like?
Kahane was born in Brooklyn, New York, and developed an early interest in Jewish studies and Zionism, eventually moving to Israel to pursue his vision of a Jewish state.