MK Tur-Paz Reflects on Rabbi Kook's Ethical Mandate for Political Leadership

On the anniversary of Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook's death, MK Zvi Hauser Tur-Paz shared his personal journey of engaging with Rabbi Kook's teachings, which have profoundly influenced his approach as a public figure. Tur-Paz studied at the Har Etzion Yeshiva, known for its Brisker method and led by Rabbi Lichtenstein, a disciple of Rabbi Soloveitchik, where he was first exposed to Rabbi Kook's philosophy through lectures by Rabbi Amital. However, it was his father-in-law, Professor Avi Ravitzky, head of Jewish Thought at the Hebrew University, who deeply opened his understanding and appreciation of Rabbi Kook's original, uncensored writings.

Ravitzky explained that some of Rabbi Kook's writings had been censored or altered by his followers to protect him from conservative critics or to shield the public from complex or bold ideas. After the publication of the three volumes of "Shmoneh Kvatzim," which presented Rabbi Kook's unedited thought, Tur-Paz began to embrace many of his teachings. For 15 years as a teacher and school principal, he taught Rabbi Kook's works, especially the book "Orot."

Tur-Paz highlighted a passage from "Orot" where Rabbi Kook discusses the Jewish people's historical exile and reluctance to engage in worldly politics unless it can be conducted without wickedness or brutality. Rabbi Kook asserted that a Jewish state must be governed by moral and ethical standards, and if that is impossible, it is better not to have a state. This principle, Tur-Paz said, serves as a moral imperative for politicians: not all means are justified in politics or statecraft, and ethical guidance must be the foundation for leadership.

While acknowledging the complexity and contradictions within Rabbi Kook's teachings, Tur-Paz emphasized his personal commitment to these ethical standards as a public servant. He concluded by honoring Rabbi Kook's memory on the 3rd of Elul, the day of his passing, wishing that his legacy be a blessing.