ABSTRACT
This chapter analyzes the relationship between four variables and three competing models of Israeli collective identity.1 Temporal perceptions – the relationship between past, present, and future – are analytically distinguished by linear, mixed, and cyclical models. Spatial perceptions of territorial borders range from the more pragmatic, through romantic, to mystical. Personal and collective perceptions of security range from most secure through relatively secure to insecurity bordering on paranoia. Religious observance ranges from secular, through traditional, to orthodox. These variables are associated with three competing models of Israeli collective identity. Linear temporal perceptions, pragmatic definitions of state borders, secularism, and relative sense of security are identified with the more liberal form of civic nationalism. Cyclical temporal perceptions, mystical associations of borders with biblical prophesy and redemptive processes, orthodox religiosity, and strong sense of insecurity are associated with ethno-nationalism. Mixed temporal perceptions, a romantic association of borders with homeland, religious traditionalism, and an intermediary and more situational sense of security are associated with republican nationalism. Different versions of republican nationalism have been dominant in Israel, but are contested by civic nationalism and by ethno-nationalism.
