LEHAVA Meaning and
Definition
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Lehava is a right-wing extremist organization based in Israel, primarily active in Jerusalem. The name "Lehava" is an acronym for the Hebrew words "Lohavim B'Tzahal," meaning "Flame for the Army." Founded in 2009 by Ben-Zion Gopstein, Lehava is known for its strong anti-assimilation and anti-Arab sentiments.
The organization's primary objective is to prevent intermarriage and relationships between Jewish Israelis and non-Jewish individuals, particularly Muslims and Christians. Lehava promotes a strict interpretation of Jewish religious laws, emphasizing the preservation of Jewish identity and halakha (Jewish religious laws) as a central tenet of the organization. The members of Lehava view intermarriage as a direct threat to Jewish continuity and the demographic integrity of the State of Israel.
Lehava has gained attention and widespread criticism due to its controversial tactics. The organization has been accused of incitement, racism, and violence against Arabs and other non-Jewish individuals. Lehava often organizes protests, patrols, and campaigns to disrupt events that bring together Jewish and non-Jewish participants, such as music concerts, weddings, and cultural gatherings. Critics argue that Lehava's activities contribute to the ethnic and religious tensions in Israel and undermine the principles of coexistence and equality.
The Israeli government and various civil society organizations have taken steps to curb Lehava's activities, including legal action, monitoring, and public condemnation. Nonetheless, Lehava continues to be a divisive force in Israeli society, exemplifying the challenges faced in promoting inclusivity and tolerance within a complex and diverse cultural landscape.
Common Misspellings for LEHAVA
Etymology of LEHAVA
The word "Lehava" is a Hebrew word that means "flame" or "blaze". In Hebrew, "lehava" (לְהַבָּה) is derived from the root word "lahaav" (לַהַב), which means "to burn" or "to blaze". The word is often used metaphorically to represent passion, intensity, or fervor.
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