From the Dreyfus Affair to Zionism in Palestine: Rashid Riḍā’s Views of Jews in Relation to the ‘Christian’ Colonial West

The ideas of the well-known reformist Sheikh Muḥammad Rashīd Riḍā (1865-1935) in his journal Al-Manār (Lighthouse, 1898-1935) still inspire many academic researchers who are interested study Muslim world first decades twentieth century. As one most influential advocates Arab nationalism and pan-Islamism, Riḍā’s critiques Zionism Jewish expansion Palestine were part anti-colonial activities against ‘Christian’ west. article discusses how was frustrated that European powers let down Arabs by supporting Jews establishing their homeland at cost rights its indigenous habitants. We shall argue harsh views should be understood as a mixture religious rhetoric, nationalist ambitions, resistance to Turkish policies, political frustration with Europe’s ‘unjust’ colonial policies special privileges given Palestine. In early years century, anticipated progress nation own Palestine, but concerns grew after British Mandate 1922. looks Riḍā, confrontations Judaism, combined these debates other on freemasonry, authority Church, crusades, role Jesuits curbing asserted increasing power Europe. highlights Islamic national outlook Zionists bears character ferment