Redemptive Theology in the Thought of Yeshayahu Leibowitz

Abstract

Yeshayahu Leibowitz' concept of redemption is explored by focusing on his essay entitled "Redemption and the Dawn of Redemption". In a remarkably short span—only three pages—Leibowitz laid out a complex concept of redemption liberally seasoned with irony. The concept of 'redemption' is frequently woven into the platforms and credos of many Jewish religious social and political movements. I argue that Leibowitz intended to redeem 'redemption' from the grip of any competing Jewish interpretation, and that he perceived all uses other than his own strict interpretation of the word 'redemption' as erroneous and idolatrous, and that reclaiming 'redemption' impacts the fate of Judaism, the Jewish people, and the Jewish individual's religious existence. Leibowitz' essay underlines his vision of messianism and his fiercely-held opposition to any ideological or religious version of Zionism. Leibowitz attempted to "redeem" messianic elements or constitutive 'stories' of Judaism from the grip of Zionism and religious Zionism.