I can understand why the teachings of the Old Testament encourage racial distinction in Judaism. The origins of Judaism derive from the covenant between God and His chosen “people”, which seems to set up Judaism with a disputable definition from the very start. I personally identify Judaism as a system of religious and cultural beliefs, not a racial privilege. I find it difficult to identify Judaism as a racial category since conversion is allowed; I don’t think you can convert yourself into another race. Although there are stereotypes of genetically Jewish features, stereotypes only include the perceived majority of a type of person. I also don’t think that anyone has the power to deny someone from following a religion, or to denounce someone from a religion.
I think it is ultimately a decision that must be agreed upon by members of the Jewish community and followers of the Jewish faith to decide who is Jewish, and what constitutes Jewish-ness. However, that decision will be difficult to reach, since nobody can agree who is Jewish, and who has a say. I recognize Judaism as having customs and traditions associated with Jewish culture, and a set of religious beliefs, but denying an individual as a Jew because of their race is not a practice I agree with, but also not one I am in a place to judge.
4 comments:
You pointed out that one can't convert to a different race, which I think made your resonse really effective.
I agree with Lah. That was a great point. But I think that historically it was considered a race because of the hereditary factor. I think now, though, that in the present day it shouldn't be considered a race because, like you said, you can't just convert to a different race.
You said that you think the Jewish community should decide you is Jewish. I think that some Jews do this, but I don't think it is happening in the larger Jewish community. Because conversion is allowed (to reform Judaism, at least) I don't think individuals are being denied their "jewishness" because of their race.
I liked how you said that it isn't anyone's place to denounce another person's faith or religion. This statement helped to remind me that I personally do not have the right either to classify what makes a Jew Jewish or not. Only God is in the place to judge people, and I think that is a concept that people forget too often (like me!).
Erin, I think your comment that you believe only God is in a position to judge brought great perspective to the question. I hadn't really thought of this dispute from that angle, but it's a great thought, and one really relevant given the topic.
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