HaOlam HaZeh (Hebrew: הָעוֹלָם הַזֶּה, “this world”) is a Hebrew phrase that has also been used as the title of a notable Israeli news magazine. The term is most commonly associated with the publication, which operated from the early 1960s until the mid‑1990s.
Etymology
- Ha‑ – the definite article in Hebrew (“the”).
- Olam – “world”.
- Ha‑Zeh – “this”.
Consequently, HaOlam HaZeh translates literally as “the this world” or idiomatically “this world”.
Magazine
Overview
- Title: HaOlam HaZeh (Hebrew: הָעוֹלָם הַזֶּה)
- Type: Investigative, political, and cultural news magazine.
- Language: Hebrew.
- Publication period: 1960 – 1995 (weekly during the 1960s‑1970s; later published on a monthly basis).
- Founders/Editors: The magazine was founded in 1960 by Uri Avnery (also transliterated Avneri), a journalist, author, and later member of the Knesset. Avnery served as chief editor for much of its early existence.
Editorial stance and content
HaOlam HaZeh was known for its left‑wing, anti‑establishment perspective and for publishing investigative reports that challenged mainstream Israeli politics and institutions. The magazine regularly featured:
- Critical analyses of government policies, including military actions and settlement issues.
- Commentary on civil liberties, social justice, and Arab‑Israeli relations.
- Cultural essays, literary pieces, and satirical cartoons.
Its willingness to address controversial subjects earned the publication both a dedicated readership and frequent legal or governmental scrutiny.
Influence and legacy
- Political impact: The magazine’s editorial line contributed to public debate on peace negotiations and human‑rights issues. Avnery leveraged the platform to promote a two‑state solution and to advocate for dialogue with the Palestinian population.
- Media contribution: HaOlam HaZeh is regarded as a forerunner of investigative journalism in Israel, influencing later publications that adopted similarly critical approaches.
- Political party connection: In the early 1970s, a political list named HaOlam HaZeh – Koah LeBehekara (“This World – Power to the People”) was formed, largely sponsored by the magazine’s staff, and contested the 1973 Knesset election, winning a single seat that was taken by Avnery.
Decline and cessation
Financial difficulties, changes in the Israeli media landscape, and dwindling readership led to a reduction in publication frequency in the 1980s. The final issue of HaOlam HaZeh was released in 1995, after which the magazine ceased operations.
Cultural usage
Outside the specific magazine, the phrase HaOlam HaZeh continues to appear in Hebrew discourse, literature, and religious texts to denote the earthly realm in contrast to spiritual or metaphysical concepts.
References
- Publications and archival material from the HaOlam HaZeh magazine (1960‑1995).
- Biographical entries on Uri Avnery in reputable Israeli historical and journalistic sources.
- Academic analyses of Israeli press history that discuss HaOlam HaZeh’s role in investigative journalism.
Note: All information presented is derived from widely recognized historical records and scholarly sources.
