Jews and Non Jews

Biblical and Rabbinic Attitudes Toward Non-Jews

Early Jewish texts affirmed the universal fraternity of humankind, while asserting the importance of Jewish distinctiveness.

The Non-Jew in Jewish Law

Rabbinic authorities have used different arguments to redress inequities in the way halakhah treats non-Jews.

Jewish Attitudes Toward Proselytes

At times, Jews have embraced large numbers of converts, but hostile relations with Gentile neighbors often led to suspicion of proselytes as well. 

Israel and Anti-Gentile Traditions

Israel Shahak's theory that anti-Gentile traditions have influenced Israeli policy is well known in both Arab and anti-Semitic circles, but Jews have yet to properly confront it.

Traditional Views of Jewish Chosenness

The Bible implies that God's choice of the Jews was random; later traditions made the Jews seem deserving of this privilege.

Judaism and the Other

The various ways Jewish law distinguishes between Jews and gentiles.

Historic Jewish Views on Christianity

Theological attitudes toward Christianity have changed over time in response to social and political developments.

Overview: Attitudes Toward Non-Jews

What have Jews thought about non-Jews at various points in history?

Spinoza and the Philosophical Impossibility of a Chosen People

Jewish chosenness is not a metaphysical reality. It derives from the conditions of a particularly prosperous period in Israelite history.

What Is Idolatry?

Rejection of "foreign worship" is a primary commandment and central to the Jewish worldview.