Religious antisemitism

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Religious Antisemitism

Religious antisemitism refers to prejudice against or hostility towards Jews based on religious beliefs and practices. This form of antisemitism has its roots in theological disputes and religious doctrines that have historically portrayed Jews in a negative light. It is distinct from racial or ethnic antisemitism, which targets Jews based on perceived racial characteristics.

Historical Background

Religious antisemitism has a long history, dating back to ancient times. In the early Christian era, theological differences between Judaism and Christianity led to tensions. The early Christian church sought to distinguish itself from Judaism, often portraying Jews as responsible for the death of Jesus Christ, a narrative that contributed to centuries of persecution.

Early Christianity

In the first few centuries CE, as Christianity emerged from Judaism, early church fathers such as John Chrysostom and Saint Augustine wrote polemics against Jews. These writings often accused Jews of deicide, the killing of God, which became a central theme in Christian antisemitism.

Medieval Period

During the medieval period, religious antisemitism intensified. Jews were often accused of blood libel, the false allegation that they used the blood of Christian children in religious rituals. This period also saw the rise of the Inquisition, which targeted Jews who had converted to Christianity but were suspected of secretly practicing Judaism.

Reformation and Beyond

The Protestant Reformation did not significantly alter the landscape of religious antisemitism. Figures like Martin Luther initially sought to convert Jews to Christianity but later wrote vehemently against them when his efforts failed. His writings contributed to the perpetuation of antisemitic stereotypes.

Theological Roots

Religious antisemitism is often rooted in theological interpretations that view Judaism as obsolete or superseded by Christianity. This concept, known as supersessionism, posits that the New Covenant through Jesus Christ has replaced the Old Covenant with the Jewish people.

Supersessionism

Supersessionism has been a significant theological justification for religious antisemitism. It suggests that Jews are no longer the chosen people and that their continued adherence to Judaism is a rejection of God's will.

Accusations of Deicide

The charge of deicide, the belief that Jews were collectively responsible for the crucifixion of Jesus, has been a powerful and damaging accusation throughout history. This belief was officially repudiated by the Second Vatican Council in the 20th century, but its effects lingered for centuries.

Modern Perspectives

In the modern era, many Christian denominations have sought to address and rectify the legacy of religious antisemitism. The Catholic Church, for example, has made significant efforts to improve Jewish-Christian relations, particularly through the Nostra Aetate declaration, which repudiated the charge of deicide and emphasized the shared heritage of Christians and Jews.

Also see

• Antisemitism
• Blood libel
• Supersessionism
• Nostra Aetate
• Inquisition