RAV KOOK ON Yom Ha'Atzma'ut: Rav Kook and Zionism

To summarize the salient points in Rav Kook's views on Zionism: There are historical precedents for significant Jewish movements in which irreligious Jews played a major role. The special merits of Eretz Yisrael will elevate those who participate in its settlement and rebuilding. The original roots of Zionism are holy, going back to the disciples of the Gaon of Vilna and the Baal Shem Tov. Zionism must be returned to these authentic holy roots. The success of secular Zionism is due to its non-sectarian concern for the entire Jewish people, and it serves as a necessary correction for the imbalances caused by centuries of statelessness.