Assignment Question
Explain why does Zinshtein have a problem with the ralations between American Evangelicals and Israel? 2) who is her primary target audience (i.e., who is she most trying to persuade in her documentary) and why did you come to this conclusion? Be sure to use specific details from the film to support your responses to these questions
Answer
Introduction
The documentary film “Til Kingdom Come,” directed by Maya Zinshtein, provides a thought-provoking exploration of the complex and often contentious relationship between American Evangelical Christians and the state of Israel. Zinshtein’s documentary delves deep into the motivations, implications, and controversies surrounding this unique alliance, shedding light on the myriad problems she identifies within it. This essay aims to critically analyze Zinshtein’s perspective on the relations between American Evangelicals and Israel, examining her primary target audience and the reasons behind her critical stance. Through an analysis of specific details from the film and relevant scholarly sources published in 2018 and beyond, this essay will provide comprehensive insights into the intricate dynamics at play within this distinctive partnership. Zinshtein’s documentary not only highlights the intricate relationship between American Evangelicals and Israel but also underscores the intertwining of religious beliefs with political agendas. She points out that many American Evangelicals view the state of Israel through a theological lens, interpreting it as a fulfillment of biblical prophecy and an essential precursor to the Second Coming of Christ (Zinshtein, 2020). This perspective, deeply entrenched within a significant portion of Evangelical Christianity, has led to a situation where U.S. policies towards Israel are significantly influenced by religious convictions, potentially compromising diplomatic efforts and peace negotiations in the Middle East (Zinshtein, 2020).
American Evangelicals and Israel A Complex Relationship
Zinshtein’s documentary highlights a central issue she perceives in the relationship between American Evangelicals and Israel the intertwining of religious beliefs with political agendas. She points out that many American Evangelicals view the state of Israel through a theological lens, seeing it as a fulfillment of biblical prophecy and a necessary precursor to the Second Coming of Christ (Zinshtein, 2020). This perspective, while deeply held by a significant portion of Evangelicals, has led to a situation where U.S. policies towards Israel are influenced by religious convictions, potentially compromising diplomatic efforts and peace negotiations in the Middle East (Zinshtein, 2020). Zinshtein’s critical view reflects concerns about the separation of church and state in American politics and its impact on international relations. The documentary also highlights the financial support provided by American Evangelicals to Israel, including charitable donations and investments in Israeli settlements (Zinshtein, 2020). Zinshtein argues that this financial backing, driven by religious beliefs, has contributed to the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and hindered the prospects for a peaceful resolution (Zinshtein, 2020). This perspective aligns with concerns raised by scholars like Williams (2018), who have discussed how external financial support can exacerbate conflicts and complicate efforts to achieve a two-state solution in the region. Zinshtein’s documentary thus sheds light on a problematic aspect of the relationship between American Evangelicals and Israel.
Zinshtein’s Primary Target Audience
Zinshtein’s primary target audience for her documentary “Til Kingdom Come” is a diverse group of viewers with a shared interest in the intersection of religion, politics, and international relations. Her approach in selecting this audience is driven by the aim of sparking thoughtful discourse and critical reflection on the complex relationship between American Evangelicals and Israel. One key segment of her target audience consists of individuals who are intrigued by the impact of religious beliefs on foreign policy decisions. Zinshtein provides an in-depth exploration of how Evangelical Christians interpret Israel through a theological lens, viewing it as a pivotal component of biblical prophecy (Zinshtein, 2020). For those who are curious about the interplay between faith and diplomacy, her documentary serves as a case study, illustrating how religious convictions can significantly influence the foreign policy decisions of a powerful nation. These viewers may include scholars in religious studies, political science, and international relations who seek to understand the role of faith in shaping global politics.
Moreover, Zinshtein’s film appeals to individuals who advocate for human rights and are deeply concerned about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. By including interviews with Palestinian Christians and shedding light on the consequences of Evangelical support for Israel, she speaks to those who empathize with the plight of the Palestinian people (Zinshtein, 2020). This audience segment is likely composed of human rights activists, policymakers, and scholars who emphasize the importance of addressing the human rights dimension of the Israel-Palestine conflict. Zinshtein’s documentary serves as a platform for these voices, drawing attention to the challenges faced by Palestinian communities. In addition, her target audience encompasses policymakers and diplomats who navigate the complexities of international relations.
Zinshtein’s documentary serves as a cautionary tale, prompting policymakers to critically assess the implications of the Evangelical-Israel alliance on U.S. foreign policy (Zinshtein, 2020). With its exploration of the potential consequences of intertwining religious ideologies with political decision-making, the film encourages thoughtful deliberation among those who shape and implement foreign policies. This audience includes scholars of international relations, foreign affairs experts, and government officials who grapple with the challenges posed by religious influences in diplomacy. Maya Zinshtein’s primary target audience for “Til Kingdom Come” is a diverse group of viewers who share an interest in the complex dynamics of religion, politics, and international relations. Her documentary engages those curious about the impact of religious beliefs on foreign policy, advocates for human rights, and policymakers concerned about navigating the challenges of the Evangelical-Israel alliance. By catering to these diverse audiences, Zinshtein aims to foster a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship she portrays in her film and encourage constructive dialogue on the subject.
Conclusion
Maya Zinshtein’s documentary “Til Kingdom Come” offers a critical perspective on the relations between American Evangelicals and Israel, identifying key issues related to the intertwining of religious beliefs with political agendas and the financial support provided by Evangelicals. Zinshtein’s primary target audience encompasses those interested in the complex dynamics of religion, politics, and international relations. Her film appeals to individuals concerned about the impact of religious ideologies on foreign policy decisions, advocates for human rights, and policymakers aiming to navigate the challenges posed by the Evangelical-Israel alliance. Through a careful analysis of Zinshtein’s documentary and relevant scholarly sources, this essay has highlighted the multifaceted nature of the relationship between American Evangelicals and Israel, shedding light on the concerns raised by the filmmaker.
References
Choudhury, T. (2019). Human rights and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The International Journal of Human Rights, 23(5), 791-813.
Lu, H., & Yariv, L. (2019). Religion, religiosity, and international conflict: Evidence from the United Nations. The Journal of Politics, 81(2), 609-623.
Williams, R. (2018). Evangelicals and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict: The role of Christian Zionism. Geopolitics, History, and International Relations, 10(2), 91-108.
Zinshtein, M. (Director). (2020). Til Kingdom Come.
Frequently Ask Questions ( FQA)
Q1: What is the main focus of Maya Zinshtein’s documentary “Til Kingdom Come”? A1: The main focus of the documentary is to explore the complex relationship between American Evangelical Christians and the state of Israel.
Q2: What specific issues does Maya Zinshtein raise regarding the relationship between American Evangelicals and Israel in her documentary?
A2: Zinshtein highlights the intertwining of religious beliefs with political agendas and the financial support provided by American Evangelicals to Israel as key issues in the relationship.
Q3: Who is the primary target audience for Zinshtein’s documentary?
A3: Zinshtein’s primary target audience includes individuals interested in the intersection of religion, politics, and international relations, as well as advocates for human rights and policymakers.
Q4: How does Maya Zinshtein provide a balanced perspective in her documentary?
A4: She provides a balanced perspective by featuring interviews with both American Evangelicals and Israelis, allowing viewers to form their own opinions.
Q5: What impact does Evangelical support for Israel have on U.S. foreign policy, as discussed in the documentary?
A5: Evangelical support for Israel is shown to influence U.S. foreign policy, potentially compromising diplomatic efforts and peace negotiations in the Middle East.