Fundamentalist Characteristics

Fundamentalist movements in all religions share certain characteristics. They reveal a deep disappointment and disenchantment with the modern experience. They also express a sense of real fear. Every single fundamentalist movement is convinced that the secular establishment is determined to wipe their religion out. This may not always be a paranoid reaction as there have been times in the past when governments have tried to squash new religious groups.

Fundamentalist look back to a “Golden Age” before the irruption of modernity for inspiration and signs. They are often radical in their reinterpretation of religion to a point that it does not even reflect the old religion they think they are returning too.  The usually proclaim that their way is the ONLY way and that all others are slated for destruction.

Jewish

Zionism –Goals

1.     Unity of all Jews

2.     Ingathering of all Jews in Israel.

3.     Israel = promise to Moses

4.     Strong state of Israel

5.     Preservation of Jewish identity through Hebrew education, spiritual and cultural values.

6.     Pure actions by Jews

7.     Rebuild the Temple

Anger against Jews who do not agree

Islam

1.     Islamic State = world

2.     Jihad –personal struggle

3.     All Muslims obey Koran

4.     Resist plural societies

5.     Free the holy city of Jerusalem

Anger against Muslims who do not agree

Christian/American

1.     Restore right Belief in the Bible

2.     Bible = Word of God literally

3.     Repeal Separation of church & state

4.     Prayer in school

5.     Majority of right wing Christians in the congress.

6.     World Evangelism

7.     Prepare for the Rapture

8.     Destroy Liberalism

9.     Pro Christian Family

10.  Stop Abortions

11.  Stop Gays

Anger against  so-called-Christians who do not agree