Should we distinguish between Jews and Zionists?

- Many Muslims say that we should distinguish between Jews and Zionists and not fall into the trap of insulting Jews, and that there are many Jews who are against the state of Israel and Zionism.
- Is what they say true?

Dear Brother / Sister,

The following two verses in the chapter of Al-Mumtahina answer your question:

Allah forbids you not, with regard to those who fight you not for (your) Faith nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them: for Allah loveth those who are just.

Allah only forbids you, with regard to those who fight you for (your) Faith, and drive you out of your homes, and support (others) in driving you out, from turning to them (for friendship and protection). It is such as turn to them (in these circumstances), that do wrong. (al-Mumtahina, 60/8, 9)

The verses above make this distinction; they distinguish between those who fight against our religion and our homeland and those who do not; and they express clearly that there is no harm in establishing relationships with the second group within the framework of goodness and justice.

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