Meaning: This quote by Theodor Herzl, a journalist and the founder of modern political Zionism, encapsulates the essence of his vision for the Jewish people and the State of Israel. It reflects his belief that the establishment of a new social and political system must be accompanied by a commitment to righteousness and justice. To fully understand the significance of this quote, it is essential to explore the historical and ideological context in which Herzl articulated his ideas.

Theodor Herzl was a prominent figure in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a time marked by significant political and social upheaval, particularly for Jewish communities in Europe. Antisemitism was rampant, and Jews faced discrimination, persecution, and violence in many parts of the continent. Against this backdrop, Herzl emerged as a fervent advocate for the creation of a Jewish state as a solution to the "Jewish Question." His seminal work, "The Jewish State," published in 1896, laid out his vision for a homeland for the Jewish people, where they could live free from oppression and persecution.

The quote reflects Herzl's realization that the mere establishment of a new social system, namely a Jewish state, would not be sufficient if it did not embody principles of righteousness and justice. For Herzl, the Zionist movement was not just about securing a piece of land for the Jewish people; it was about creating a society based on ethical and moral values. He understood that the success of the Zionist endeavor hinged not only on the physical reconstitution of the Jewish people in their ancestral homeland but also on the establishment of a just and equitable society.

Herzl's emphasis on righteousness and justice aligns with the broader Zionist ethos, which sought to create a national home for the Jewish people that would serve as a light unto the nations. Central to this vision was the idea of "tikkun olam," or repairing the world, which underscored the responsibility of the Jewish homeland to contribute positively to the global community. Herzl's quote, therefore, can be seen as a reflection of this moral imperative that he believed should guide the Zionist project.

Moreover, Herzl's emphasis on righteousness and justice can be interpreted as a response to the prevailing injustices and inequalities of his time. He recognized that the creation of a new society presented an opportunity to rectify historical wrongs and to build a model community based on ethical principles. In this sense, his quote embodies a call to action for the Zionist movement to prioritize moral integrity and social justice in its quest for statehood.

In conclusion, Theodor Herzl's quote encapsulates the moral dimension of the Zionist vision, emphasizing that the creation of a new social system must be accompanied by a commitment to righteousness and justice. It reflects Herzl's aspiration for the Jewish state to embody ethical values and serve as a beacon of morality in the world. His words continue to resonate as an enduring reminder of the ethical imperative that underpinned the Zionist movement and the establishment of the State of Israel.