Henrietta Szold: The Legacy of Hadassah and Her Vision for Peace

Henrietta Szold, a pioneering figure in Jewish women's organizations, founded Hadassah in 1912, uniting various female Zionist groups under one banner. Named after the biblical Queen Esther, Hadassah became instrumental in providing healthcare and social services in Mandatory Palestine, addressing issues such as maternal health and childhood nutrition. Despite facing challenges from the male-dominated Zionist Organization of America, Szold and her supporters successfully maintained Hadassah's independence, emphasizing the importance of healthcare and social work in the Zionist movement.

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Szold's vision extended beyond healthcare; she was an early advocate for a binational state for Jews and Arabs in Palestine. According to Francine Klagsbrun, author of “Henrietta Szold: Hadassah and the Zionist Dream,” Szold believed in the potential for peaceful coexistence between the two communities. She was involved with groups such as Brit Shalom and Ihud, which sought equal rights and shared governance. Klagsbrun notes that Szold's perspective on binationalism was shaped by the realities of her time, although she might have adjusted her views in light of contemporary political dynamics.

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The interpretation of Szold's advocacy for a binational state has sparked debate among scholars. Dvora Hacohen, author of a competing biography, argues that Szold was not a formal member of Brit Shalom and that her name was added without her full agreement. Hacohen acknowledges Szold's commitment to peace but emphasizes that she struggled to find a viable solution for coexistence. This divergence highlights the complexities of Szold's legacy and the differing views on her political stance.

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Szold's contributions to healthcare in Palestine were significant. She established hospitals and health services that addressed critical health issues, such as trachoma, which was prevalent at the time. Her commitment to inclusivity is reflected in her insistence that the institutions she founded serve all individuals, regardless of their background. This principle continues to resonate in Israeli healthcare today.

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• “She became known as a mother in Israel,” — Francine Klagsbrun, Author

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• “It did not matter who had the majority. Neither should dominate the other. She did not feel there should be a political state just for the Jews.” — Henrietta Szold

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• “She tried to find a way for Jews and Arabs to live together peacefully, but could not find a solution” — Dvora Hacohen, Author

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Henrietta Szold's legacy is multifaceted, encompassing her role as a healthcare pioneer and her advocacy for peace between Jews and Arabs. While her early support for a binational state has been debated, her commitment to social justice and healthcare remains a cornerstone of her contributions. As Hadassah continues to evolve, Szold's vision for a compassionate and inclusive society endures, reflecting her enduring impact on Israeli society and the Jewish diaspora.

Times of Israel