In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Palestine (part of the land now called Israel) was a predominantly Arab land under Ottoman rule, where Arabs and a smaller Jewish minority lived side by side. However, the arrival of European Jewish immigrants, spurred by the Zionist movement, began to change the demographics. These immigrants sought to establish a Jewish homeland in Palestine (meaning take the land and take over), leading to growing tensions with the local Arab population.
The Balfour Declaration and British Role
In 1917, the British government, through the Balfour Declaration, promised to support the creation of a Jewish national home in Palestine, despite the wishes of the Arab majority. After World War I, Britain took control of Palestine under a mandate from the League of Nations, which only fueled further resentment among Palestinians, who saw this as a betrayal of their rights.
The UN Partition Plan and the Nakba
In 1947, the United Nations proposed a partition plan that would divide Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states. Though the Jewish population made up about one-third of the people and owned less than 7% of the land, the plan allocated over half of Palestine to the Jews. Palestinians rejected this plan as unjust.
In 1948, when the State of Israel was declared, it was followed by war. Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians were forcibly displaced from their homes in a catastrophe known as the Nakba (“catastrophe”). Entire villages were depopulated and destroyed, and many Palestinians fled to neighboring countries or the Gaza Strip and West Bank, where they remain as refugees to this day.
The Ongoing Occupation and Gaza
Today, Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza live under harsh conditions. Gaza, in particular, has been described as an “open-air prison,” where more than 2 million Palestinians are confined by an Israeli blockade. Movement is restricted, and basic necessities such as electricity, water, and medical care are scarce.
Palestinians view the creation of Israel as the result of a historical injustice, where their land was taken without their consent, and they continue to live under occupation, denied the right to return to their homes. Their struggle is for the right to self-determination, freedom, and justice in the land they consider their homeland.
And this is why we have this continued struggle in the area to this day. Let’s look at it like this: a group comes into your state and takes over by force, kills people in your family, your friends, takes your home, and moves you to a fenced-in area (an open-air prison) since 1947, and they have continued to be more and more abusive and oppressive. You would probably be pissed too.
Looking Back Thousands of Years
The loss of Jewish control over biblical Israel occurred in several stages over centuries, with key events marking significant shifts in power. Here’s a brief timeline:
1. Babylonian Conquest (586 BCE)
The first major loss of Jewish sovereignty came with the Babylonian conquest of the Kingdom of Judah in 586 BCE. The Babylonian king, Nebuchadnezzar II, destroyed Jerusalem and the First Temple, and exiled many Jews to Babylon. This event marks the beginning of the Jewish Babylonian Exile.
2. Persian Rule and Return to Zion (539 BCE)
In 539 BCE, the Persian Empire, led by Cyrus the Great, conquered Babylon. Cyrus allowed the Jews to return to Judah and rebuild the Second Temple, a period known as the Return to Zion. Although the Jews returned, they were under Persian rule and did not regain full political independence.
3. Hellenistic Period (332 BCE)
After the conquests of Alexander the Great in 332 BCE, the land of Israel came under Hellenistic control, first by the Ptolemies of Egypt and later by the Seleucids of Syria. The Jews experienced varying degrees of autonomy under Greek rule, but there were tensions, particularly under the Seleucids, who sought to impose Greek culture and religion.
4. Hasmonean Dynasty (164–63 BCE)
In 167 BCE, the Jewish Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire succeeded in reclaiming a degree of Jewish sovereignty. The Hasmonean Dynasty was established, and the Jews ruled much of the land for about a century. This was the last period of Jewish self-rule before the Roman period.
5. Roman Conquest (63 BCE)
In 63 BCE, the Roman general Pompey conquered Jerusalem, and the land became a client state of the Roman Empire. By 37 BCE, Herod the Great, a Roman-appointed king, ruled Judea. The Romans maintained control over the region, though Jewish rulers, like Herod, were allowed a degree of autonomy.
6. Destruction of the Second Temple (70 CE)
Jewish attempts to resist Roman rule culminated in the Great Jewish Revolt (66–73 CE). In 70 CE, Roman forces under Titus captured Jerusalem and destroyed the Second Temple, marking a critical loss of Jewish autonomy. This event devastated the Jewish population, and many were killed, enslaved, or exiled.
7. Bar Kokhba Revolt and Final Defeat (132–135 CE)
In 132 CE, Jews revolted again under the leadership of Simon Bar Kokhba. Initially successful, the revolt was crushed by the Romans in 135 CE. The Romans responded harshly, killing or exiling many Jews, renaming Jerusalem Aelia Capitolina, and renaming the region Syria Palaestina (from which the modern name “Palestine” derives). This marked the end of Jewish political control over the land for nearly two millennia until 1948.
Modern day Israel
Tel Aviv, Israel, is known for being one of the Middle East’s most welcoming cities for LGBTQIA+ residents and visitors, and it hosts one of the largest Pride celebrations in the world each year. Source.
Israel also offers state-funded abortions, making its abortion laws among the most liberal globally. Source.
According to the Pew Research Center’s 2020 survey, about 27% of Jews identify as having no religion… shocking I know.
In Judaism, Jesus Christ is not recognized as the Messiah or as divine, which contrasts with Christianity’s core belief that Jesus is the son of God and that, as Jesus said in the New Testament, “the only way to the Father is through me.” This theological difference highlights the distinct religious perspectives between Judaism and Christianity.
There have been reports of some attempts by Jewish individuals or groups to pass laws in Israel restricting missionary activities, including those of Christians. Source.
And, I know a lot of people are going to say it doesn’t matter Israel is Gods chosen and that strip of desert is Gods favorite place on this entire earth that he made because people from that region wrote it down as such on scrolls that were later translated into what we now know as the Bible…
However, the New Testament states:
- Galatians 3:28 (NIV): “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, neither male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”In this passage, Paul emphasizes that in Christ, traditional social and ethnic distinctions are transcended, and all believers are equal.
- Romans 10:12 (NIV): “For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile— the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him.”Paul points out that salvation and God’s blessings are available to everyone, regardless of ethnic or cultural background.
- Ephesians 2:14-16 (NIV): “For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility.”This passage reflects Paul’s teaching that Jesus’ death and resurrection have broken down the divisions between Jews and Gentiles, creating a unified community in Christ.
John 14:6: “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
In John 8:44, during a heated exchange with some of the Jewish leaders, Jesus says, “You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father’s desires.”
And, no I don’t want Israel to be attacked or for them to attack anyone else… I wish that they could all live in peace, however, a lot of Christians seem to worship the nation state thinking it represents God when that isn’t the case. They are just as sinful and corrupt as the U.S. and the world are. I know it’s not popular but then facts that go against preconceived beliefs seldom are.
I will start by saying that everyone is entitled to their own opinions. That said, you are pretty much over the top supporting the so-called Palestinians. To wit:
1. You state that Israel was created in 1948 giving it 30% of the Palestinian lands. Post WW One the Middle East was more like 98% Arab land and vast swaths of it were unused or underutilized by the Arabs. Saying that the Jews got 30% grossly misrepresents the situation.
2. You state simply that a war broke out in 1948. Actually the non-Jewish countries surrounding Israel attacked and then were defeated. You proceed to ignore the series of wars initiated by the Arabs which Israel also won.
3. Israel has made MANY efforts to trade land for peace and has always been rebuffed. The Arabs/islamists do not want any peace that allows Israel to continue to exist. Thus “From the river to the sea”.
George,
Wow, your complete ignorance of history shows through in spades. My “opinions” as you call it are backed by historical fact while yours is just made up nonsense. And apparently you lack reading comprehension skills as well since you say that I said things that I didn’t even say like Israel getting 30% of the middle east. Maybe you should go to Israel for their huge gay pride celebration this year, I bet you would fit right in.
Truth
Really
Upsets
Most
People
Great history lesson MD!
You are right that I mis-calculated the 30%. After that, however, you dive into personal attack devoid of facts. I am really sorry to see this as I have been a subscriber and fan of yours for years.
For what it’s worth, my comments are unrelated to the religious saga (important as that may be). I am addressing the state of Israel’s situation as a staunch ally of the US surrounded by enemies.
Do not be concerned, however, as your analysis is enough to drive me away from your otherwise excellent website.
Alas.
George Lyon,
Nothing I wrote was “devoid of facts” EVERYTHING I wrote is 100 percent FACT backed up by recorded history. But for shits and giggles what was not fact?
The problem is, that since childhood, people have been brainwashed and indoctrinated to believe bed time stories. Critical thinking and researching the true facts takes time and effort. People are content believing the lies bestowed upon them since birth. And here we are. Headed for WW111. I hope everyone is happy living in ignorance. Great history lesson MD. People just want to argue with me too. I gave up trying to explain to the sheeple.
One thing that most folks forget is that 25% in the least of Palestinians are Christians. Thus those supporting Zionism are destroying fellow Christians.
absolutely!
Totally understand where you’re coming from, M.D., As a Christian, it can be frustrating and hard to support Israel due to their policies and lifestyle choices. If they go against God’s word, then they are wrong. That’s the part we hate about Israel.
Having said that, I think the Bible is clear that we should not be an enemy of Israel and that God will bless those that support Israel. God can use an imperfect people to do his will. There is a purpose for the existence of Israel. First, it was used as the birthplace of our Savior. Second, it will be used in the end times.
We certainly should not support non-Christian behavior, but maybe, in the case of Israel, we can remember “love the sinner, hate the sin”. Israel is there for a reason. We may not understand it all, but God knows what’s going on, so we can trust in that.
Tim,
You see that’s the problem… you think God wrote the bible. God did not write a single word in the bible. The Old Testament, also known as the Hebrew Bible, was written by various authors over many centuries. These authors were ancient Israelites (or Hebrews) from the regions that today are part of Israel and Palestine. Traditionally, figures like Moses are credited with writing parts of it (such as the first five books, called the Torah), but modern scholars believe it was written by multiple people between the 12th and 2nd centuries BCE. And they thought then as they do now that they are somehow chosen, God favorite, God likes their spot of desert better that the rest of the world etc… and they reflected that in their writing. Did you know that in Hebrew, Israel is interpreted as “one who struggles with God”.
Jesus Christ was quoted as saying in John 8:44, “You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father’s desires.”
M.D.,
Thank you for your reply. I greatly appreciate this discussion.
I believe what the Bible says. The whole Bible – and here’s why:
2 Timothy 3:15-17
15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
That tells us that the Bible is the Word of God, written by inspired men. It says that scripture will tell us what it takes to be saved, that the doctrine therein is good for us, and that the purpose of the Bible is to help us to be perfect in God’s eyes and able to produce good fruit in what we do.
I agree with you wholeheartedly that the majority of the Jewish people were everything that Jesus said about them. They rejected Him. And though they rejected Him, He still died for them as well as us.
Help me understand what you’re saying, M.D.. Are you saying that the Old Testament is not God’s Word?
Tim,
Actually none of the bible is Gods word since God did not write the bible… however, the new testament is the closest thing that we have to what Jesus Christ said and of his life, crucifixion, and resurrection as reported and written down by the people who were with him here… Mathew, Mark, Luke, and John. I know it’s not a popular thing, however, it is correct.
The zionistic zeal of evangelical christians stems from a lack of study in the scriptures and history. They prefer the writings of Tim Lahaye, Hal Lindsey, and blood moon false teacher John Hagee to the scriptures. In the parable of the tenants, Jesus said the vinyard would be taken and given to a different nation that would render it’s fruit in fue season. In galatians chapter 4 paul equates unbelieving Israel with Hagar and Ishmael, he further equates believers in christ both jew and gentile with Sarah and Isaac. He goes on to say that Hagar and son will be cast out and not share in the inheritance of the promised sons. They will accuse me of “spiritualizing everything” when I show from the scripture that the great tribulation already occurred in the destruction of Jerusalem the mother of harlots in 70ad, and get wrapped around the axel if I state that they “carnalize everything” when they insist on a physical fulfillment of prophecy. They follow internet false prophets in mass. They’ll rip mormons for following Joe Smith, while they follow Dutch Sheet, Amanda Grace and on and on with zeal. Nearly all these “prophets” say God told them DJT would be re elected in 2020, and they still follow them in droves. They display Israeli flags in their churches emblazoned with the star of molech as described in acts 7:43 and Amos 5:25. The word antichrist only appears four times in the bible in first and second John. Yeah, not at all in revelation which was also written by John. Anti christ in all four cases is described as a SPIRIT of DISBELIEF in christ. Israel is the living embodiment of disbelief in christ. Even muslims treat christ with more honor than does unbelieving Israel. There are far more christians living in gaza , the west bank, and Lebanon, individually than in all of Israel, and evangelical christians cheer when Amir reports on their wholesale slaughter. It sickens me. The entire early church was made up of jewish people until Peter was sent to Cornelius, after which the gentiles where grafted in. The church is the true Israel, the unbelieving jews need to place their trust in christ just like everybody else ir they will remain the synagogue of their father as christ explained in John 8:44. They need the love of christ, just like all of us. We all fall short.
AMEN!!! I was brainwashed my whole life until around 2007, and it took me 5 years to really come out of it without fear, because they tell you you are cursed if you don’t support physical Israel, which is a total mis interpretation of Genesis 12:3, which Israel wasn’t even a nation yet. God was specifically talking to Abraham, and he meant he would curse him who curses Abraham. He was also giving the gospel to Abraham when he says through him all nations will be blessed, talking about Christ. Not Israel. And there is a cross reference to Galatians 3:8 that proves he was giving the gospel of Christ to Abraham. It reminds me of in “The Harbinger” where people talk about how the Isaiah 9:10 prophesy refers to America. It’s stupid. America wasn’t even a nation at the time. But you can’t even explain that to anyone, they don’t want the truth.
YHVH has chosen that land & has punished the people several times. That said is how Christians got grafted in. He wants everyone to come to Him. Eventually all will get on their knees & worship Him. If the Bible says it, I believe it. Be careful what you put before him…
Rebecca,
Why would God choose a spot of land or a favorite people when God made everything and everyone?
You got that right. Thanks for speaking truth. God bless. 🙏❤️