← Autodidact Archive · Original Dissent · jay
Thread ID: 13114 | Posts: 2 | Started: 2004-04-10
2004-04-10 16:47 | User Profile
....I'm curious: how can ANYBODY watch that movie and not have at least a bit of animosity towards Jews?
My aunt said, "See it and tell me if you think it's anti-semitic. that's outrageous." She didn't expect me to reply with, "I don't base my beliefs or religious dogma on what Jews want."
I'm amazed how many Christians I speak to are desperately trying to deny the anti-Semitic element of this movie. (Some do admit their feelings when I probe....but...) How can you be a Christian, watch Caiphas & Brothers, and not despise them?
I'm hardly a big anti-Semite on this board, but I also recognize that Mel is right when it comes to their role in Jesus' death - and their hostility to all things Christianity. Anyone see that movie, and NOT feel that way towards them?
-Jay
2004-04-10 18:01 | User Profile
A distinction is needed. :nerd:
It really depends on how you define "antisemitism".
If one defines antisemitism as "irrational hatred for anybody and anything Jewish, without qualification", then, of course, the Passion is not antisemitic. (The Apostles, Mary, Veronica &c. are Jews, after all.)
Otoh, if you define antisemitism as "having any thoughts whatsoever that may offend Jews for reasons however spurious", then, of course, most people are antisemites, and so is Mel Gibson.