Ha-Magamoth Ha-Masiyoth shel Histadruth Degel Yerushalayim ["The Practical Goals of the Degel Yerushalayim Organization."]

KOOK, ABRAHAM ISAAC

Jerusalem

(1918)

As an antidote to secular Zionism which took into consideration only the secular and material needs of the Jewish Nation, R. Kook proposed establishing the Degel Yerushalayim Movement which would emphasize the spiritual aspects of the National Revival. In 1918 he issued this proposal outlining his plans for the organization which included: Establishing a central Yeshiva in Jerusalem, publishing a religiously oriented periodical, fund visits by Rabbis to the rural colonies and settlements to elevate their spiritual welfare of residents, fund the building of Mikvas and synagogues and in general uplift and care for the material and spiritual welfare of immigrants. The movement originally created some interest and although the Yeshiva was eventually established and visits to the colonies were organized, the original impact greatly diminished