This paper explores the critical yet underutilized role of religious leadership in peace-building processes within the context of Israeli democracy and its future trajectory. Religious identities deeply shape both Israeli and Palestinian societies, making the involvement of religious leaders indispensable for meaningful dialogue and reconciliation. Yet, historical peace efforts have often excluded religious figures, leading to limited trust and ineffective outcomes.
In light of the pressing need for nonviolent theology, this paper examines three interconnected aspects of this challenge: the significance of religious leadership in peace-building, the reasons behind its limited engagement, and the transformative potential of political theology. By grounding discussions in religious traditions, political theology provides a framework for religious leaders to authentically contribute to transitional justice and peace-building.
The paper highlights the reluctance of many Israeli clergy members to engage in political theology, often due to fears of association with radicalization or political exploitation. To address this, it emphasizes the creation of safe spaces for internal dialogue among religious leaders and the lowering of barriers to their participation in political discourse.
Nonviolent political theology offers a vital pathway for bridging the divide between religious and secular perspectives, empowering clergy to confront the ethical and political dilemmas of the conflict. By fostering inclusive dialogue rooted in nonviolent principles, religious leaders can play a pivotal role in shaping a peace-building process that resonates with the deeply rooted religious identities of the region.