Anti-Semitism: The Persistent Hatred of the Jewish People

Anti-Semitism is one of the oldest and most enduring forms of hatred in human history. Spanning centuries and continents, it has taken religious, racial, political, and cultural forms, yet consistently targets the Jewish people. This article explores its biblical roots, theological distortions, modern manifestations, and the Christian responsibility to oppose it.

Biblical Foundations and the Chosen People

Anti-Semitism — the deep-seated hostility toward Jews — has persisted for millennia. One of its roots lies in the New Testament narrative, where Jewish religious leaders are depicted as instrumental in the crucifixion of Jesus. While the Romans carried out the execution, some have wrongly blamed the Jewish people collectively, fostering centuries of religiously motivated persecution. This contradicts the Christian mandate to love all people and ignores the fact that Jesus Himself was a Jew, born into the lineage of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Scripture affirms God's enduring covenant with Israel. He declared, "I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse those who curse you" (Gen 12:3). Later, through the prophet Obadiah, "As you have done to Israel, it will be done to you" (Ob 1:15). Believers are called to pray for and bless Jerusalem and the Jewish people, not to harbour hatred (Ps 122:6).

The Jewish people are central to God's redemptive plan. They are the "chosen people" through whom God revealed His law, His prophets, and ultimately, His Son (Rom 9:4,5). The genealogies of Jesus in Matthew and Luke trace His human ancestry through the Jewish line (Mt 1:1-16; Lk 3:23-38). The world's hostility toward the Jews often stems from its rejection of God and His purposes. As Jesus said, "If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first" (Jn 15:18).

What is my attitude toward the Jews?

Replacement theology, the belief that the Christian Church has superseded Israel in God's covenant promises, has tragically contributed to anti-Semitism by undermining the ongoing significance of God's promises to the Jewish people and fostering attitudes of spiritual superiority that have enabled persecution throughout history.

Secular, Racial, and Political Dimensions

Beyond religious animosity, secular anti-Semitism has arisen from envy of Jewish success in education, finance, science, and culture. This prejudice culminated in the horrors of the German Holocaust, where six million Jews were systematically murdered — a stark example of racial hatred and state-sponsored genocide.

In the modern era, anti-Semitism often manifests in political forms, particularly in opposition to the State of Israel. While criticism of government policies is legitimate, calls for Israel’s destruction, denial of its right to exist, or the use of anti-Jewish stereotypes in political discourse cross into anti-Semitism. Today, parts of the Arab world continue to express hostility toward Israel, seeking its destruction and the confiscation of its land.

Yet, God's promises to Israel remain irrevocable. Paul affirms that "all Israel will be saved", a prophecy that depends on the continued existence of the Jewish nation (Rom 11:26). The preservation of the Jewish people against all odds stands as a testament to divine faithfulness.

Christian Responsibility and Hope for the Future

Christians are called to stand against all forms of hatred, including anti-Semitism. This begins with repentance for historical complicity in Jewish persecution, including during the Crusades, Inquisition, and Holocaust. It continues with education, awareness, and active solidarity with Jewish communities.

Prayer for the peace of Jerusalem is not merely a spiritual exercise but a biblical mandate (Ps 122:6). It reflects a heart aligned with God’s purposes. Supporting Israel does not mean endorsing every political decision, but affirming its right to exist in security and peace.

The future holds hope: Scripture promises a day when "the Deliverer will come from Zion, he will turn godlessness away from Jacob" (Rom 11:26). Until then, believers must be agents of blessing, not cursing, reflecting the love of Christ to all people — especially those who have suffered for so long.

Reflection and Application:

Examine your heart: Do I hold any unconscious biases toward Jewish people or Israel?
Commit to prayer: How can I regularly pray for the peace of Jerusalem and the Jewish people?
Reject replacement theology: Do I affirm God's ongoing covenant with Israel and His chosen people?
Stand against hatred: How can I speak out against anti-Semitism in my community and online?