Are Jews Angry at Jesus Because He Was a Jewish Founder of Christianity?

Many misconceptions surround the relationship between Jews and Jesus, and the broader context of Christianity's formation. Personal experiences and historical perspectives can differ widely. It's important to understand the complexities and nuances involved.

Jesus: An Ordinary Jew

Let's begin with a personal perspective. Personally, no, Jews do not feel angry at Jesus. This isn’t because of his actions, but more because of misunderstandings and historical events that followed his teachings. We do not hold individuals accountable for the actions of others, nor do we believe in collective punishment for past crimes. Furthermore, we don't believe that one person can take the blame or punishment for the actions of another.

Jesus and His Historical Context

Jesus was a Jew, born and raised in a Jewish community. His teachings and actions were deeply rooted in Jewish traditions and Torah law. Two generations after his death, Paul created Christianity by merging elements of Judaism and local religions, introducing the concept of three gods.

Christianity, in its early stages, was largely a Jewish sect until the first century. While controversies and debates occurred, it is unjust to attribute anger towards Christians to Jesus himself, who would indeed be dismayed by the portrayal of him and the anti-Semitic rhetoric that developed later.

Christianity and Anti-Semitism

Some Christians, myself included, see a unique dynamic in this relationship. Each time the name of Jesus is mentioned, it is often met with hidden hatred or indifference. If true indifference was present, such inaccuracies would be avoided. Instead, the New Testament is accused of being anti-Semitic, despite the fact that it was written by Jews themselves, including Paul who frequently spoke about his people, the Jews.

The New Testament mentions Jews as both 'of the flesh' and 'of the Spirit,' indicating a complex and sometimes contentious relationship with the Jewish identity. It is important to acknowledge that the roots of anti-Semitism were not in Jesus or early Christianity, but in the actions of later church fathers who filled the New Testament with material that led to centuries of persecution against Jews, including the myth that the Jews killed Jesus.

While Vatican II in the 1960s absolved the Jews of this guilt, it is disheartening that it did not come with the Jews being asked for forgiveness for the long history of persecution. Still, it is encouraging to see the recent efforts by the Roman Catholic Church to combat anti-Semitism, demonstrating a growing awareness and respect for Jewish identity.

Conclusion: Supporting Israel and the Current Context

Today, due to promises made by God (as stated in the Old Testament), Christians support Israel, for those who bless Israel will be blessed and those who curse it will be cursed. Israel has indeed taken the lead in this support, and the USA is one of the largest global supporters of Israel, with many Christians even living there.

The perception of anti-Semitism is often tied to contextual factors. If we look at history, Israel's actions and the support from the international community, including Christians, we do not see the same level of anti-Semitism as in previous centuries. It is crucial to support and promote dialogue and understanding between different religious and cultural communities.

Through education, mutual respect, and shared values, we can address misconceptions and foster a more harmonious world.