Jesus the Jew, Article Review Example

This article analyzes the question as to whether Jesus was really a Jew or not. There were many points to consider to why it is believed that Jesus was a Jew as well as the question as to whether he was not. The following are the summarizations for both arguments:

? In the book of John, 67 verses use the term “the Jews” implying that Jesus and his disciples were not a part of the Jews.

? The term “the Jews” can lead the readers to the belief that they opposed Jesus

? There were many different forms of Jews, which cannot be summed up in one specific type.

? Other gospels clearly try to portray Jesus as a Jew

? Jesus portrayed a clear understanding of the Laws and Scriptures that were considered sacred to the Jews.

? In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus though on passages that were in the scriptural laws of the Jews which his interpreting, commenting, did nothing more than strengthen and affirm their legitimacy.

? Jesus was an observant Jew, he held to the truest and deepest meanings, which were in the roots of the Scripture.

? Jesus’ garb also implicates that he was a Jew with his wearing the tassels on his cloak, a requirement for Jewish men.

? Jesus was Jewish. He was born into the context of Judaism, and that is how he used scripture. This was how he ministered and lived his life. This is how he asked his other Jews to live, and it ultimately was the way he died.

? Covenants were not among equals, it was a higher power to a commoner.

The overall reflection of the article was the broad interpretation and ability to question whether Jesus was in fact a Jew. Because of the Catholic involvement with Jewish persecution, it was important to determine if the classification of the “Jewish people” includes Jesus. The article clearly shows scriptures that lead the reader to question whether or not Jesus was a part of the group that was often described in third person format. However, his practices follow that of Jewish requirements and beliefs.

The article states, “The Jewishness of Jesus is profoundly evident in Catholic worship through our use of the concept of “covenant” in the heart of the eucharistic prayer, in fact, in the very words of institution.” (Mullen) In my Catholic education and exposure, I can see that the interpretation and use of a covenant solidifies the belief that Jesus is Jewish. The majority of covenants are not between equals. A practice that is common in Catholicism. It is explained as the overlords and vassals, king and subject, or for personal interpretation a priest and its congregation.

We use many passages in today’s practices that should never allow the question as to whether Jesus was a Jew. When reading the beginning of the article, it did raise question as to if the beliefs we know maybe challengeable. Knowing the Biblical violence that took place against the Jews, these versus can almost “justify” the separation of Jesus from the Jews. These passages are used by many, including the Catholics to justify the actions of violence. It may not ever truly be justified but separating Jesus from this would be easier than believing that Catholics were participants. Six million Jews were murdered by followers of Jesus.

This article is hard to fathom because of the great contradiction that is clearly lays out. How can one teach of Jesus the Jew and the violence that took place? The Vatican II’s Norsta Aetate teaches, “In her rejection of every persecution against any person, the Church, mindful of the inheritance she shares with the Jews and moved by the Gospel’s spiritual love, decries hatred, persecutions, and displays of anti-Semitism directed against Jews at any time and by any one.” (Mullen) This states clear as day that the Catholic Church does not condone or participate in any type of persecution. The idea of opposing others is not a common teaching or practice, it is to embrace what we know and believe to be correct.

The correlation between Jesus and the Jews was shown in his garb and use of tassels. This is a remindful fact that we as Catholics still use such similarities. The use of medals, scapulars, crucifixes and other religious tools continually reminds us of God’s love. It is a symbol of God and his power. The correlation of Jews and Jesus was strong, however it was also a good reminder to see the power of God as well. When Jesus wore his tassel it created a place for the hemorrhaging woman to hold onto. Jesus’ obedience to the Jewish law created a source of healing for that woman.

When I think about the history of Jewish persecution it is nothing more than appalling. Even more so that the Catholics were participants. Ridiculing for religious beliefs is what we teach against. We have received a vast amount of gifts and teaching from the Jews and it should do nothing more than motivate us to appreciate and recognize the gifts we have gotten from them. Also, if ever an opportunity we need to make right the wrongs that have taken place in the past. Understanding the controversy and questions presented in this article will allow me to have a much stronger stand and explanation for the arguments, if they occur regarding Jesus being a Jew and its importance to embrace the truth.

Work Cited

Mullen, Father Patrick J. Jesus the Jew. American Catholic.org. Dec. 2008. Web.