The paradox of anti-semitism
- ISBN: 9780826488961
- Editorial: The Continuum Publishing Co.
- Fecha de la edición: 2006
- Lugar de la edición: London. Reino Unido
- Encuadernación: Cartoné
- Medidas: 21 cm
- Nº Pág.: 240
- Idiomas: Inglés
Arguably as anti-Semitism has diminished, the Jewish community has lost its way in the unceasing quest for social and political acceptance. The surprising thesis of this book (especially from the pen of a Rabbi) is that in the past anti-Semitism has in fact been a positive force in Jewish life. As a pariah people, divided from the gentile world through prejudice and misunderstanding, Jewry has seen itself as a separate and alien community. Paradoxically it is anti-Semitism, which has ensured its survival rather than threatening its existence. The book begins with a study of the impact of the Enlightenment on modern Jewish life. Now, as a result of social acceptance, the Jewish community throughout the English-speaking world is undergoing a transformation. Jews have ceased to be dedicated to the Jewish heritage and the Jewish community is in chaos. No longer is Judaism a unified tradition, providing a solid foundation for the Jewish people. The book points to a series of historical examples illustrating the author's thesis - ways in which antipathy to Jews and Judaism stimulated Jewish life and growth.
