Why Jews Become Targets: Tracing the Roots of Antisemitism

The year was 1939, January. The world teetered on the brink of the Second World War, tensions escalating as Hitler and Nazi Germany sought to expand their dominion. Amidst this growing unease, Hitler addressed his Parliament, his speech crafted by the notorious Joseph Goebbels, the Reich's propaganda Minister. In his address, Hitler ominously warned of annihilating European Jews—a threat that tragically materialized with the Holocaust, claiming the lives of six million Jews. This deep-seated hatred for Jews, termed anti-Semitism, is often regarded as the oldest form of discrimination, enduring through history and persisting to this day.

To unravel the roots of anti-Semitism, we journey back to the early Roman Empire, a time before Christianity dominated the religious landscape. Romans, adherents of pagan beliefs, viewed the Jews' monotheism with suspicion. Differences in practices, such as Sabbath observance and circumcision, were met with distrust. In an era where lack of understanding bred fear, Jews became victims of villainization, their customs and beliefs distorted through the lens of ignorance.

The situation worsened after the death of Jesus Christ. Although historical evidence points to Roman involvement in Jesus's crucifixion, Christian propaganda obscured this truth for centuries. Blame shifted to the Jews, who were falsely depicted as the killers of Christ, a misconception ingrained in societal consciousness. The destruction of the Temple of Jerusalem by the Romans in 70 AD further fueled this narrative, exacerbating tensions between Christians and Jews.

In the ensuing centuries, religious rivalry between Christians and Jews intensified. The Church played a pivotal role in perpetuating anti-Semitic sentiments, disseminating propaganda that vilified Jews. This hostility manifested in laws that marginalized Jews, depriving them of rights and freedoms. Jews were forced to wear distinctive markers, such as yellow badges, as a means of identification and segregation.

As Christianity gained prominence, lending for interest was prohibited, but economic necessities compelled someone to fulfill this role. Jews, left with no choice, became money lenders, a profession that eventually led to their vilification. They were falsely portrayed as cunning and greedy, a stereotype perpetuated in literature, including William Shakespeare's play, "The Merchant of Venice."

The scapegoating of Jews persisted through various historical events, such as the mysterious disappearance of children and the Black Death plague in the 14th century. Jews were wrongfully accused of heinous crimes, with baseless allegations of ritual murders and well poisoning. Propaganda and misinformation amplified these unfounded claims, leading to widespread anti-Semitic sentiments.

The Enlightenment era of the 1700s brought about progress and emancipation for Jews in some regions, granting them citizenship for the first time. Despite this, anti-Semitism persisted, driven by pseudoscientific theories inspired by Charles Darwin's evolution concept. Anti-Semitism evolved from religious prejudice to racial discrimination, with Jews viewed as inferior and unfit to survive.

The term "anti-Semitism" emerged in the mid-19th century, encapsulating this racial hatred. Anti-Semitic ideologies found a fertile ground in Nazi Germany, where Hitler exploited these beliefs to justify his heinous actions. The Holocaust stands as a stark reminder of the catastrophic consequences of anti-Semitism, leading to the extermination of millions of Jews.

In the aftermath of World War II, efforts were made to reconcile and educate society about the horrors of anti-Semitism. Pope John Paul II played a significant role in fostering understanding between Christians and Jews, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and coexistence. However, anti-Semitism has not been eradicated. Neo-Nazi movements and far-right leaders continue to espouse anti-Semitic beliefs, echoing hatred from the past.

Reflecting on history, it is imperative to recognize the beauty of diversity and understanding among humanity. Embracing differences and fostering empathy stand as powerful tools against the darkness of prejudice and discrimination. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that the pain endured by millions of Jews serves as a poignant lesson, urging us to reject bigotry and cherish the richness of our shared humanity.