What is anti-Semitism and why does it exist?

I. Definition of Anti-Semitism

Anti-Semitism is hostility, prejudice, or discrimination directed against Jewish people, encompassing negative attitudes and actions toward them as an ethnic, cultural, and religious group. Historically, this bias has manifested through violence, stereotypes, political and social exclusion, and various forms of discrimination that have targeted Jewish communities across centuries and continents.

Anti-Semitism can be expressed in subtle ways (such as harmful stereotypes) or more aggressive forms (from organized persecution to systemic atrocities like the Holocaust). Despite global awareness of the tragedies these attitudes have produced, anti-Semitism persists in society. Understanding its nature and origins is critical to recognizing its dangers and standing against it.

II. Historical Roots and Cultural Factors

Anti-Semitism has ancient roots. One early example is recorded in the book of Esther, describing the threat of annihilation faced by the Jewish people (Esther 3:8–9). Periods of persecution also marked later eras, such as the oppression under the Seleucid Empire, detailed in records like 1 Maccabees (though not part of the Protestant canon, it provides historical insight into Jewish struggles).

Following the destruction of the Second Temple in AD 70, many Jewish communities were dispersed throughout the Roman Empire and beyond, an event commonly referred to as the Diaspora. Over subsequent centuries, Jews were often viewed as socio-cultural outsiders. Medieval Europe witnessed repeated expulsions (e.g., England in 1290, Spain in 1492) and forced conversions. Such hostility was fueled by misinformation, myths about Jewish practices, and economic exploitation of Jewish businesses.

Modern history’s most extreme act of anti-Semitism occurred during World War II when Nazi Germany systematically murdered six million Jewish people in the Holocaust. This horror highlighted the destructive potential of ingrained, institutionalized prejudice.

III. Spiritual and Theological Dimensions

From a biblical perspective, hostility toward the Jewish people contradicts the scriptural affirmation that God chose them to carry out significant phases of salvation history (Deuteronomy 7:6: “For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be His people, His treasured possession.”). The Jewish people are integral to God’s redemptive plan, culminating in the coming of the Messiah in the person of Jesus (Luke 1:68–70).

Though individual Jews and Gentiles alike come to know God through faith in Christ, Scripture affirms that God has not rejected the Jewish people nor cast them aside (Romans 11:1–2). This is essential for recognizing that any form of hatred or contempt toward them stands in direct opposition to the revealed purposes of God.

IV. Influences of Misinformation and Fear

Anti-Semitism often thrives because of ignorance, fear, and envy. Rumors of Jewish “secret power” or “control” have circulated for centuries without grounding in fact. Such conspiracy theories played a large role in shaping Western and Eastern European anti-Semitic propaganda in the modern era. For instance, the fabricated document called “The Protocols of the Elders of Zion” (first published in the early 20th century) incited widespread suspicion of Jewish communities. Scholarly investigations have long since exposed this text as a forgery, yet it resurfaces in certain circles to foster hatred.

Moreover, societal or economic struggles sometimes provoke people to shift blame onto a visible minority. Because Jewish communities historically maintained distinct religious and cultural identities, they too often became scapegoats in times of crisis.

V. Biblical Affirmation of the Value of All People

Throughout Scripture, all people are portrayed as made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). Human value and dignity are therefore not restricted to any one lineage or ethnicity. The gospel extends reconciliation to both Jews and Gentiles (Galatians 3:28–29). Hatred against any group—particularly the people from whom the Messiah emerged—conflicts with the biblical principle of love for neighbor (Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 22:39).

VI. Why Anti-Semitism Persists

1. Historic Patterns of Prejudice

Many societies have passed on anti-Jewish sentiments through tradition and folklore. Over generations, misinformation and bigotry can become deeply entrenched in prevailing culture.

2. Political and Socio-Economic Pressures

Upheaval in nations has historically led to scapegoating. In times of crisis, minority groups—such as Jewish communities—become convenient targets. This cycle observes that when a population feels threatened or seeks an explanation for misfortune, it is easier to blame an identifiable group.

3. Distortions of Religious Teachings

Some have erroneously used biblical passages out of context to justify hostility toward Jewish people. Scholarly works (including modern textual analysis from the Dead Sea Scrolls) affirm the consistent message of Scripture that all nations are called to righteousness, emphasizing no license for hatred.

4. Spiritual Warfare

Scripture depicts ongoing conflict in the spiritual realm. As part of God’s redemptive plan, the Jewish people have endured distinct opposition, which can be understood as part of a broader spiritual hostility against God’s work in the world (Ephesians 6:12).

VII. Practical Responses to Anti-Semitism

1. Education and Historical Awareness

Studying the Holocaust, for instance, underscores the real harm arising from unchecked prejudice. Archeological evidence (like the Dead Sea Scrolls) and historical documents (such as the writings of the first-century historian Flavius Josephus) authenticate the continuous presence and influence of the Jewish people, reminding us of their integral role in world history.

2. Loving Our Neighbor

Jesus’ parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37) targets ethnic and cultural divisions by demonstrating that mercy transcends prejudice. This example compels believers to empathize with and serve others, regardless of their backgrounds.

3. Respect for Scripture and Its Original Context

A grounded interpretation of the Bible acknowledges that Judaism, as the root of the Christian faith, deserves reverence rather than hostility (Romans 11:17–18). The continuity of Scripture displays God’s plan through Abraham’s descendants (Genesis 12:1–3), the prophets, and the New Testament church.

4. Prayer and Advocacy

Prayer for peace, understanding, and the well-being of all people—especially Jewish communities—helps combat negative stereotypes and fosters an environment of respect. Advocating for fair treatment and truth-based education can dismantle harmful myths and promote real understanding.

VIII. Conclusion

Anti-Semitism is fundamentally a form of hatred that targets the very lineage through whom the Messiah entered the world. Historically entrenched through misinformation, fear, and scapegoating, it stands in direct contradiction to biblical teaching about human dignity and the special role God assigned to the Jewish people.

Scripture calls believers to love, pray for peace, and stand against any form of unjust persecution (Psalm 122:6). By recognizing the spiritual, historical, and social factors contributing to anti-Semitism, individuals and communities can act in alignment with the teachings of Scripture, uphold the value of every person, and encourage understanding—thereby demonstrating true love and compassion in a world that desperately needs both.