Meir Kahane: Jewish Defender or Jewish Supremacist?

Host Noam Weissman explores the controversial ideas, and long-lasting influence of Meir Kahane—American-born rabbi, founder of the Jewish Defense League, and pioneer of the far-right ideology known as Kahanism. Once dismissed as a fringe figure, Kahane's ideas are making a troubling comeback, echoed in memes, political platforms, and even Israeli policy debates. Noam goes beyond the headlines to ask: Who was Meir Kahane--really? What did he believe? Why do some Jews say he was “right”—while others see him as a terrorist and racist? Featuring insights from historian Gil Troy, Orthodox thinkers, and voices across the political spectrum, this episode examines Kahane’s life, legacy, and the resurgence of Jewish extremism in the wake of October 7.

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