Douglas Reed’s “The Controversy of Zion” explores the historical, political, and religious influences of Zionism from ancient times to the mid-20th century. Reed delves into the origins of Jewish identity, the rise of Talmudic influence, and the implications of Zionist ideologies on global politics.

Preface and Author Background

🌍 Introduction by Ivor Benson

Douglas Reed was a renowned journalist and author whose works gained significant attention before and after World War II. His controversial views on Zionism led to his marginalization and the suppression of his later works. Despite this, Reed’s extensive background as a foreign correspondent informed his critical perspective on Zionism, making his analysis particularly compelling.

📜 Author’s Career

Reed was a former London Times correspondent in Central Europe and became well-known for books such as “Insanity Fair” and “Disgrace Abounding.” However, after publishing “Far and Wide” in 1951, he faced significant opposition and censorship, which curtailed his public career as a writer. This allowed him to focus on his most significant work, “The Controversy of Zion,” which he researched extensively in libraries in New York and Montreal.

The Start of the Affair

📅 Historical Context

According to Reed, the true start of the Zionist affair occurred in 458 BC when the tribe of Judah established a racial creed that had a disruptive effect on subsequent human affairs. This creed was centered around the idea of the master race and laid the foundation for future conflicts.

📜 The Establishment of the Law

Reed traces the origins of Jewish identity to the Levites in ancient Judah. The Levites created a distinct religious and racial doctrine that emphasized segregation and exclusivity. This doctrine was embodied in the Mosaic Law, which Reed argues was designed to set Judah apart from other tribes and establish a framework for dominance.

The End of Israel

🌍 Split Between Israel and Judah

Reed explores the historical split between Israel and Judah, emphasizing that Israel rejected the Judahite doctrines and chose to integrate with neighboring peoples. This split led to the development of distinct identities, with Judah focusing on a racial creed that became the foundation of Judaism.

📜 Disappearance of Israel

According to Reed, the Israelites merged with other nations and ceased to exist as a distinct entity. In contrast, the Judahites preserved their identity through a strict adherence to their religious and racial laws, which laid the groundwork for future Zionist ideologies.

The Levites and the Law

📜 Creation of the Mosaic Law

The Levites compiled the Mosaic Law during the hundred years following the Assyrian conquest of Israel. This law, first presented in Deuteronomy, became the basis for Jewish religious and racial doctrines. Reed argues that this law was not divinely inspired but was instead a creation of the Levites to enforce their control over Judah.

📜 Political Implications

Deuteronomy is portrayed as a political manifesto that laid out a plan for Jewish dominance over other nations. The law’s emphasis on destruction and intolerance is seen as a precursor to modern Zionist strategies, which Reed argues have led to significant geopolitical conflicts.

The Rise of the Pharisees

🌍 Pharisaic Influence

The emergence of the Pharisees marked a significant shift in Jewish religious practices. The Pharisees promoted a rigid interpretation of the Mosaic Law, which further entrenched the exclusivity and segregation that characterized Judaism.

📜 Impact on Jewish Identity

Reed argues that the Pharisees’ influence cemented the racial and religious doctrines that would later be adopted by Zionist leaders. This shift had profound implications for Jewish identity and their interactions with other nations.

The Messianic Longing

🌍 Enduring Aspirations

The messianic aspirations within Judaism have been a driving force behind Zionist ideologies. Reed discusses how these longings have been leveraged by Zionist leaders to further their political goals, often at the expense of other nations.

📜 Political Utilization

Zionist leaders have used the promise of a messianic future to justify their actions and policies. This has led to significant conflicts, particularly in the Middle East, where the establishment of the state of Israel has been seen as a fulfillment of these aspirations.

The Coming of Zionism

📜 Theodor Herzl and Political Zionism

The rise of modern political Zionism is traced through the efforts of Theodor Herzl and the establishment of the World Zionist Organization. Reed highlights Herzl’s vision of a Jewish state and the strategies employed to achieve this goal.

🌍 Global Influence

Reed examines how Zionist ideologies spread globally, influencing political leaders and shaping international policies. The creation of the state of Israel is seen as a culmination of these efforts, supported by key figures in Britain and the United States.

The Balfour Declaration and Its Aftermath

📜 Geopolitical Maneuvers

The Balfour Declaration of 1917 and its subsequent impact on the Middle East are critically analyzed. Reed argues that this declaration was part of a broader Zionist strategy to establish a Jewish state in Palestine, leading to significant geopolitical tensions.

🌍 Establishment of Israel

The establishment of Israel in 1948 is portrayed as a continuation of ancient Zionist ambitions. Reed discusses the military actions and conflicts that followed, suggesting they were driven by long-standing objectives rooted in Talmudic doctrines.

The Invasion of America

🌍 Zionist Influence in the US

Reed examines the influence of Zionist ideologies in the United States, suggesting that American foreign policy has been significantly shaped by Zionist objectives. This influence is seen in the support for Israel and the involvement in Middle Eastern conflicts.

📜 Political and Cultural Impact

The impact of Zionist influence extends beyond politics, affecting American culture and media. Reed argues that this has led to a biased portrayal of events and a suppression of critical voices.

The Zionist State

📅 Military Actions and Conflicts

The narrative covers various military actions involving Israel, including the Six-Day War and the invasion of Lebanon. Reed suggests that these actions were driven by Zionist objectives of expansion and dominance.

📜 Ongoing Tensions

Reed argues that the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East are a result of Zionist ambitions. He highlights the role of Western powers in supporting Israel, which has led to further tensions and instability in the region.

Conclusion

Douglas Reed’s “The Controversy of Zion” presents a controversial perspective on Jewish history and Zionism. Reed critiques the Talmudic foundations of Zionism and its influence on modern geopolitics, suggesting a continuous thread from ancient religious doctrines to contemporary political strategies. He asserts that Zionist ambitions have led to significant conflicts and manipulations, particularly highlighting events like the establishment of the state of Israel and its subsequent military actions.

Quotes

Preface and Author Background

1. Douglas Reed’s Disappearance: “The disappearance into almost total oblivion of Douglas Reed and all his works was a change that could not have been wrought by time alone.” (Preface by Ivor Benson)
2. Reed’s Mission: “Reed was at last free to undertake a great task for which all that had gone before was but a kind of preparation and education that no university could provide.” (Preface by Ivor Benson)

The Start of the Affair

1. The Origins of the Master-Race Theory: “On that day the petty Palestinian tribe of Judah produced a racial creed, the disruptive effect of which on subsequent human affairs may have exceeded that of explosives or epidemics.” (Chapter 1)
2. Judaism as Denial of Universal Religion: “Judah-ism was retrogressive even in 458 BC, when men in the known world were beginning to turn their eyes away from idols and tribal gods and to look for a God of all men.” (Chapter 1)

The End of Israel

1. Rejection by Israel: “Israel rejected the chosen people creed which was beginning to take shape in Judah and went its own way.” (Chapter 2)
2. The Vanishing of Israel: “Israel remained separate from Judah of its own will, and for the very reasons which ever since have aroused the mistrust and misgiving of other peoples.” (Chapter 2)

The Levites and the Law

1. Creation of the Mosaic Law: “In 621 BC they produced Deuteronomy and read it to the people in the temple at Jerusalem. This was the birth of ‘the Mosaic law,’ which Moses, if he ever lived, never knew.” (Chapter 3)
2. Political Program of Deuteronomy: “Deuteronomy is above all a complete political programme: the story of the planet, created by Jehovah for this ‘special people,’ is to be completed by their triumph and the ruination of all others.” (Chapter 3)

The Rise of the Pharisees

1. Pharisaic Influence: “The emergence of the Pharisees marked a significant shift in Jewish religious practices, promoting a rigid interpretation of the Mosaic Law.” (Chapter 9)
2. Impact on Jewish Identity: “The Pharisees’ influence cemented the racial and religious doctrines that would later be adopted by Zionist leaders.” (Chapter 9)

The Messianic Longing

1. Messianic Aspirations: “The messianic aspirations within Judaism have been a driving force behind Zionist ideologies.” (Chapter 16)
2. Political Utilization: “Zionist leaders have used the promise of a messianic future to justify their actions and policies.” (Chapter 16)

The Coming of Zionism

1. Theodor Herzl’s Vision: “The rise of modern political Zionism is traced through the efforts of Theodor Herzl and the establishment of the World Zionist Organization.” (Chapter 24)
2. Global Spread of Zionism: “Reed examines how Zionist ideologies spread globally, influencing political leaders and shaping international policies.” (Chapter 24)

The Balfour Declaration and Its Aftermath

1. Geopolitical Strategy: “The Balfour Declaration and its subsequent impact on the Middle East are critically analyzed as part of a broader Zionist strategy.” (Chapter 28)
2. Establishment of Israel: “The establishment of Israel in 1948 is portrayed as a continuation of ancient Zionist ambitions.” (Chapter 43)

The Invasion of America

1. Influence in the US: “Reed examines the influence of Zionist ideologies in the United States, suggesting that American foreign policy has been significantly shaped by Zionist objectives.” (Chapter 40)
2. Cultural Impact: “The impact of Zionist influence extends beyond politics, affecting American culture and media.” (Chapter 40)

The Zionist State

1. Military Actions: “The narrative covers various military actions involving Israel, including the Six-Day War and the invasion of Lebanon.” (Chapter 42)
2. Ongoing Conflicts: “Reed argues that the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East are a result of Zionist ambitions, supported by Western powers.” (Chapter 46)

These quotes capture the essence of Reed’s arguments and perspectives on Zionism as presented in “The Controversy of Zion.”

FAQs

1. What is “The Controversy of Zion” about?

“The Controversy of Zion” by Douglas Reed explores the historical, political, and religious influences of Zionism from ancient times to the mid-20th century. Reed delves into the origins of Jewish identity, the rise of Talmudic influence, and the implications of Zionist ideologies on global politics.

2. Who was Douglas Reed?

Douglas Reed was a renowned journalist and author, known for his critical views on Zionism. He gained prominence before and after World War II, but his controversial perspectives led to his marginalization and the suppression of his later works.

3. What is the significance of the year 458 BC in the book?

In 458 BC, according to Reed, the tribe of Judah established a racial creed that emphasized the concept of a master-race. This event is portrayed as a pivotal moment that influenced the subsequent development of Jewish religious and racial doctrines.

4. How does Reed view the Mosaic Law?

Reed argues that the Mosaic Law, particularly as presented in Deuteronomy, was a creation of the Levites designed to enforce their control over Judah. He suggests that this law laid the groundwork for Jewish exclusivity and the notion of a chosen people.

5. What does Reed say about the split between Israel and Judah?

Reed describes the historical split between Israel and Judah, emphasizing that Israel rejected Judahite doctrines and chose to integrate with neighboring peoples. This separation led to distinct identities, with Judah focusing on a racial creed that became the foundation of Judaism.

6. How does Reed interpret the rise of the Pharisees?

Reed sees the rise of the Pharisees as a significant shift in Jewish religious practices. The Pharisees promoted a rigid interpretation of the Mosaic Law, further entrenching the exclusivity and segregation that characterized Judaism.

7. What role do messianic aspirations play in the book?

Messianic aspirations within Judaism are portrayed as a driving force behind Zionist ideologies. Reed discusses how these longings have been leveraged by Zionist leaders to further their political goals, often at the expense of other nations.

8. How does Reed view the Balfour Declaration?

Reed critically analyzes the Balfour Declaration of 1917, arguing that it was part of a broader Zionist strategy to establish a Jewish state in Palestine. He suggests that this declaration led to significant geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

9. What is Reed’s perspective on Zionist influence in the United States?

Reed examines the influence of Zionist ideologies in the United States, suggesting that American foreign policy has been significantly shaped by Zionist objectives. He also discusses the broader cultural and media impact of this influence.

10. How does “The Controversy of Zion” address the establishment of Israel?

Reed portrays the establishment of Israel in 1948 as a continuation of ancient Zionist ambitions. He discusses the military actions and conflicts that followed, suggesting they were driven by long-standing objectives rooted in Talmudic doctrines.

Here is a detailed coverage of the major figures mentioned in “The Controversy of Zion” by Douglas Reed:

Theodor Herzl

1. Role in Zionism: Theodor Herzl is presented as a pivotal figure in the creation of Zionism as an organized political force. Reed describes Herzl as a “world figure of an entirely new kind” who created a central parliamentary authority for Zionism.
2. Early Life and Background: Herzl was a journalist for the Vienna Neue Freie Presse and is depicted as a product of Viennese café society, full of self-importance and excitement.
3. Founding the Jewish State: Herzl’s publication of “The Jewish State” in 1896 is marked as a significant event, leading to the establishment of the World Zionist Organization. His declaration at the first Zionist Congress in Basel in 1897 that he had founded the Jewish state is highlighted.
4. Political Maneuvering: Reed describes Herzl’s efforts to gain support from European leaders, including the Kaiser and the Sultan of Turkey. He leveraged the promise of reduced revolutionary activities in exchange for support for a Jewish state.
5. Internal Conflict and Death: Herzl faced significant opposition from Eastern European Jews, particularly over the Uganda proposal, which led to his eventual isolation and death at a young age.

Chaim Weizmann

1. Successor to Herzl: Chaim Weizmann emerged as a key leader after Herzl, leading the Zionist movement from Russia. He played a significant role in rejecting the Uganda proposal and focusing Zionist efforts on Palestine.
2. Diplomatic Efforts: Weizmann’s influence extended to high levels of British politics, where he was able to secure significant support for Zionist aims. His strategic moves included writing reports on Foreign Office stationery to demonstrate British support23:16†source】.
3. Continued Leadership: After Herzl’s death, Weizmann solidified his position within the Zionist movement, leading to the Balfour Declaration and the establishment of a Jewish state in Palestine.

Louis Brandeis

1. American Support for Zionism: Louis Brandeis, a prominent American lawyer and Supreme Court Justice, is noted for his support of the Zionist cause in the United States. He played a crucial role in mobilizing American Jewish support for Zionist objectives.

Bernard Baruch

1. Financial and Political Influence: Bernard Baruch, a wealthy financier and advisor to U.S. Presidents, is recognized for his influence in American politics and support for Zionism. His financial resources and political connections were instrumental in advancing Zionist goals in the United States.

Henry Wentworth Monk

1. Prophetic Vision: Henry Wentworth Monk, a lesser-known figure, is mentioned for his prophetic vision of a Jewish state in Palestine. His ideas predated Herzl’s but laid some intellectual groundwork for Zionist thought.

These individuals are portrayed by Reed as having significant and often controversial roles in the development and promotion of Zionism, influencing both Jewish and global political landscapes.

Douglas Reed’s experiences with Lord Northcliffe, as detailed in “The Controversy of Zion,” focus on Northcliffe’s bold opposition to Zionist ambitions and the subsequent consequences he faced. Here are the key aspects:

Lord Northcliffe’s Position and Actions

1. Publication of the Protocols of the Elders of Zion:
   • In May 1920, Lord Northcliffe published an article in The Times titled “The Jewish Peril, A Disturbing Pamphlet, Call for Enquiry,” calling for an impartial investigation into the Protocols of the Elders of Zion.
   • This action made him a significant adversary to those promoting Zionism, as it challenged the underlying narratives supporting their cause.
2. Visit to Palestine:
   • In 1922, Northcliffe visited Palestine and wrote a series of articles expressing his concerns about the Zionist project, particularly the displacement and disenfranchisement of 700,000 Arab Muslims. He warned of potential trouble and criticized the secret importation of arms by Zionists.
   • Northcliffe’s views were based on his on-the-ground observations, which led him to conclude that the British guarantee of Palestine as a Jewish home was made without sufficient consideration of the existing Arab population.

Conflict with The Times and Suppression

1. Struggle within The Times:
   • Northcliffe encountered resistance from Wickham Steed, the editor of The Times, who was a strong supporter of Zionism. Despite Northcliffe’s position as chief proprietor, he struggled to get anti-Zionist views published in the paper.
   • Northcliffe’s frustration with Steed’s refusal to publish his critical articles on Zionism led to significant internal conflicts. He attempted to have Steed resign, but Steed remained steadfast and even sought legal advice to secure his position, claiming Northcliffe was “abnormal” and “incapable of business”.

Allegations of Madness and Subsequent Death

1. Allegations of Madness:
   • In 1922, Northcliffe began expressing fears for his life, stating he had been poisoned. These fears were used to portray him as mentally unstable.
   • On June 12, 1922, Northcliffe was certified insane by a French nerve specialist in Switzerland, a diagnosis that allowed his opponents to remove him from control of his newspapers. He was isolated, with police posted to prevent him from entering The Times offices.
2. Death and Aftermath:
   • Lord Northcliffe died on August 14, 1922, at the age of 57, officially from ulcerative endocarditis. However, the circumstances surrounding his removal from power and the allegations of madness have led to much speculation and controversy.
   • His death removed a powerful voice of opposition against Zionist ambitions, facilitating the continuation of policies favoring the establishment of a Jewish state in Palestine.

Reed’s Personal Involvement

1. Reed’s Observations:
   • As a young man working for The Times, Reed was directly involved in some of the events leading to Northcliffe’s downfall. He was summoned to be Northcliffe’s secretary shortly before Northcliffe was certified insane.
   • Reed recounts his disbelief at the allegations of madness, noting Northcliffe’s energetic and effective behavior shortly before his certification.

Impact on Zionist Criticism

1. Silencing of Criticism:
   • The removal of Northcliffe and the subsequent control over his newspapers significantly reduced the amount of critical reporting on Zionist activities. This allowed for less scrutiny and opposition to the Zionist project within the British press.
   • The suppression of Northcliffe’s voice exemplified the broader efforts to control the narrative and ensure continued support for Zionist objectives.

These experiences reflect the intense political and media battles of the time, illustrating the lengths to which opponents of Zionism would go to suppress dissenting voices. Reed’s account of Lord Northcliffe’s downfall serves as a crucial part of his broader critique of Zionist influence.

Here is a timeline of the important events covered in “The Controversy of Zion” by Douglas Reed:

Ancient to Early Modern History

• 458 BC: Establishment of the racial creed by the tribe of Judah, marking the origin of the master-race theory.
• 621 BC: Compilation of Deuteronomy by the Levites, introducing the Mosaic Law.
• 721 BC: Assyrian conquest of Israel, leading to the disappearance of the ten northern tribes.
• 37 BC - 4 BC: Reign of King Herod in Judea, further establishing the Pharisees’ influence.

19th to Early 20th Century

• 1860s: Ideas of a Jewish state are promoted by figures like Moses Hess.
• 1896: Publication of “The Jewish State” by Theodor Herzl.
• 1897: First Zionist Congress in Basel, where Herzl declares the founding of the Jewish state.
• 1904: Death of Theodor Herzl.
• 1917: Issuance of the Balfour Declaration by Britain, supporting the establishment of a Jewish homeland in Palestine.

1920s

• 1920: Lord Northcliffe publishes “The Jewish Peril” article in The Times, calling for an investigation into the Protocols of the Elders of Zion.
• 1922: Northcliffe visits Palestine and writes critically about the Zionist project.
• 1922: Northcliffe is declared insane and removed from control of his newspapers; he dies later that year under controversial circumstances.

1930s

• 1933: Adolf Hitler rises to power in Germany, leading to increased Jewish immigration to Palestine.
• 1936-1939: Arab Revolt in Palestine against British colonial rule and Zionist immigration.

1940s

• 1942: Biltmore Conference, where American Zionists call for the establishment of a Jewish state in Palestine.
• 1947: United Nations proposes the partition of Palestine into Jewish and Arab states.
• 1948: Declaration of the State of Israel on May 14; subsequent Arab-Israeli War leads to the displacement of a significant number of Palestinian Arabs.

1950s

• 1951: Douglas Reed publishes “Far and Wide,” after which he faces significant censorship.
• 1956: Suez Crisis, where Israel, along with Britain and France, invades Egypt to gain control of the Suez Canal.

1960s

• 1967: Six-Day War, where Israel captures significant territories including the West Bank, Gaza Strip, Sinai Peninsula, and Golan Heights.
• 1967: Publication of Reed’s critical articles on Zionist influence and the geopolitical consequences of the Six-Day War.

1980s

• 1982: Israeli invasion of Lebanon aimed at eliminating PLO forces.

These events outline the historical trajectory and significant milestones discussed in Reed’s “The Controversy of Zion,” reflecting the complex interplay of religious, political, and geopolitical factors shaping Zionism and its global impact.

Timeline of Important Events Involving Lord Northcliffe

1920

• May: Lord Northcliffe publishes an article in The Times titled “The Jewish Peril, A Disturbing Pamphlet, Call for Enquiry,” calling for an impartial investigation into the Protocols of the Elders of Zion【28:0†source】【28:1†source】.

1922

• Early 1922: Northcliffe visits Palestine and writes articles expressing concerns about the Zionist project and the displacement of Arab Muslims【28:1†source】【28:3†source】.
• Early 1922: Internal conflict at The Times escalates as Northcliffe struggles with Wickham Steed, who refuses to publish Northcliffe’s critical articles on Zionism【28:0†source】【28:3†source】.
• June 12: Northcliffe is certified insane by a French nerve specialist in Switzerland, leading to his removal from control of his newspapers and isolation【28:4†source】【28:6†source】【28:9†source】.
• June 1922: Police are posted to prevent Northcliffe from entering The Times offices, further isolating him from his work and influence【28:6†source】【28:9†source】.
• August 14: Lord Northcliffe dies at the age of 57. His death is officially attributed to ulcerative endocarditis, but the circumstances surrounding his certification of insanity and removal from power remain controversial【28:6†source】【28:10†source】.

Summary of Events

• May 1920: Publication of “The Jewish Peril” article.
• Early 1922: Articles on Palestine and internal conflict at The Times.
• June 12, 1922: Certification of insanity and removal from power.
• June 1922: Further isolation from The Times.
• August 14, 1922: Death of Lord Northcliffe.

This timeline outlines the key events in Lord Northcliffe’s opposition to Zionism and the subsequent actions taken against him, culminating in his controversial death.