Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Does Judaism Respects all Mankind?


Question:
I was wondering, if there is such a person as a Jewish fundamentalist?


If so, what percent of Jews would or could be classified as Fundamentalist? And, what would their core beliefs be?
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Answer:
I'm not sure what your definition of fundamentalist is, but here's mine: A fundamentalist is someone, who believes that theirs is the only true path, and anyone who does not follow their ways, is evil.


The fundamentalist sees only two options for the rest of humanity - join us, or suffer the consequences. Other nations are there, to either missionize or destroy; and any belief system that does not conform with theirs, is to be eradicated.
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A fundamentalist, is not the same as an extremist. There are those who are passionate or even extreme, about their own beliefs, whether a born-again Christian, devout Muslim, radical liberal or die-hard atheist.


We can debate the pros and cons of each of these belief systems, but a strong conviction alone, doesn't make you a fundamentalist.

It is when you cannot accept, that there may be another road to truth, and that not everyone has to fit in to your own world view - that is when you have strayed into the realm of fundamentalism.
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For this reason, Judaism can never tolerate fundamentalism. Quite simply, we don't believe that Judaism is for everyone.


Jewish thought is comfortable with the belief, that there are many paths to G-d; Judaism is the path for Jews, and non-Jews can find Him in different ways.

They can live a moral and good life, without keeping the laws, or sharing the beliefs of Judaism.

Anyone can join Judaism by converting, but this is not necessary - a non-Jew can be fulfilled, become close to G-d, and earn a place in heaven, all without becoming Jewish.

I think it is this universalistic approach, that has saved Judaism from fundamentalism.
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Don't get me wrong - there are certainly Jewish extremists and troublemakers, but Judaism poses a challenge to the fundamentalist:


If you really love G-d so much, shouldn't you also love all His children, who are created in His image?

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