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The Bible has a number of models for nonviolent resistance.

Jewish tradition takes it for granted that war is an inevitable part of human existence.

Few traditional sources discuss the ethics of fighting noncombatants, but some Jewish laws of war do display a moral genesis.

Deuteronomy 20 permits wars of aggression, but the talmudic rabbis made it difficult to declare one.

When lives are at stake, Judaism permits--and probably requires--fighting.

Judaism prohibits military action that will result in a colossal number of casualties.

Judaism distinguishes between commanded wars and permitted wars.

Combat and Conflict in Jewish Tradition. Jewish Views on War and Peace. Jewish Ideas and Beliefs.

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Jewish tradition never embraced complete pacifism, though minimizing violence has always been a priority.