America’s connection to the Jewish community traces back even before the founding of the nation 250 years ago, and it’s more than just a diplomatic relationship; it’s deeply contractual.
Even before the United States took shape, groups were learning self-governance based on principles they believed were divinely inspired. Puritan colonists viewed these stories not as distant history but as part of their unfolding narrative. In 1630, John Winthrop, their leader, delivered a sermon titled The Model of Christian Charity, which ended with Moses encouraging the Israelites to “love the Lord our God” and uphold the commandments and covenant terms.
The Mayflower Agreement was seen more as a pledge than a simple contract. Signers regarded contracts as transactional while covenants were, in contrast, based on mutual consent and personal responsibility.
Scholar Os Guinness argues that the American Revolution’s roots lie not in Greek philosophical texts or English law, but in a mindset among Jews who committed to a moral unity with each other and with God. He asserts that America’s cultural debt to Jewish contributions is profound.
Our nation’s founders expressed their respect for Jewish contributions to society. John Adams noted, “The Hebrew people have contributed more to the civilization of mankind than any other people, ancient or modern.” Interestingly, Adams also reflected a Zionist viewpoint, expressing a hope for the Jewish people to establish an independent state in Judea.
In modern reflections, Walter Russell Mead states in The Ark of the Covenant that America’s pro-Israel sentiments were driven largely by Protestant beliefs rather than primarily Jewish communities. In 1891, Evangelical pastor William E. Blackstone petitioned President Benjamin Harrison for the restoration of Palestine to the Jews, asserting it was their rightful home according to divine allocation. This petition garnered support from influential figures across various sectors.
Mead argues that long-standing customs rooted in America’s affinity for Hebrew scripture have shaped U.S. policy towards Israel more than any single organization or president.
In today’s context, the U.S.-Israel relationship is built on shared interests and values, especially following Israel’s War of Independence. The essence of their founding documents resonates with the ideals outlined in the American Declaration of 1776, particularly the belief in inalienable rights bestowed by a higher authority.
The relationship covers more than strategic elements like intelligence sharing or technological collaboration. Instead, it reflects a mutual understanding of freedom and law under God. When the U.S. observes Israel’s resilience and its commitment to democracy against overwhelming challenges, it recognizes its own struggles for liberty.
This understanding prompted the founding of the American Israel Education Association, aimed at enhancing collaboration and educating leaders on the significance of this partnership.
As the United States celebrates its 250th year, it’s crucial not just to expand its alliances but to remember and cherish its foundational traditions. The deep-rooted connection between America and Israel, nurtured by shared biblical values, reflects identity and worldview, enabling this alliance to withstand external pressures.
