Book Review - Beyond contempt

Book Review for Touchstone
Beyond Contempt by Tony Stroobant
This book has already received considerable publicity, and justifiably so. It deals with the crucial issue of Christian attitudes towards the Jewish community , spanning almost 2,000 years. It is tragic that throughout the entire history of the Christian Church, “anti-Jewishness” has been evident in both implicit and explicit ways. This very important and easy to read 103 page book represents a concise summary of many years of academic study and respectful interfaith activity. Tony is someone who is “walking the talk”, serving as co-President of the NZ Council of Christians and Jews. Early on in the book he explores the Jewishness of Jesus and the relationship of Jesus with “the Jews” of his day. The role of “the Jews” in the events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus is carefully explored, and traditional interpretations critiqued. Many common assumptions and attitudes are challenged , including the idea of “supersessionism” - the belief that Christianity has superceded Judaism and that members of the Jewish community are thereby to be regarded as in some way spiritually deficient. Tony goes on to explain the many ways in which Christians continue to perpetuate anti-Jewishness and anti-semitism, often unintentionally via our presuppositions, actions, and worship practices. The source lies within our subconscious, planted deep within us since our childhood, inherited from hundreds of years of oppressive attitudes. We are reminded that the tragic fruit of such conditioning over hundreds of years was the holocaust.
Church history, world history, biblical studies, psychology and psychoanalytic theory are drawn upon to help us become more aware of what we need to change. A comparison is made with the dynamics of changes in our attitude to inclusive language, changes which took place over many years and are still in progress. Insights into the richness of Judaism are provided and we are all encouraged to grow in respect and understanding. One thing that could have been suggested was that we be more intentional in making friends with members of the Jewish community, perhaps by joining (or forming) a local interfaith group.
The book is presented in seven easy to read sections with study questions and a psalm after each chapter - an excellent resource for a Church study group. Further reading and helpful websites are provided to assist us to explore the topics in greater depth.
“Beyond Contempt” is a vitally important work endorsed by Wendy Ross, co-President of the Auckland Council of Christians and Jews. It should be made available far and wide, within both Church and Synagogue. I suggest each Parish purchase copies of this book and also give copies to their local Jewish community. This will enable our Jewish friends to be more aware of attempts being made within the Church to move “beyond contempt” of Judaism to greater understanding and respect. The next step would be to use the book as a study guide (over seven weeks) for a Christian-Jewish dialogue group in your area. Shalom.