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Jewish Universalism

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Jewish universalism embodies a profound theological paradox: Jews were divinely chosen to convey God's moral message to all humanity, yet this universal mission requires maintaining distinct Jewish practices and identity. This inherent tension has shaped Jewish thought and practice throughout history, leading to two major misinterpretations: post-Exilic particularism that overemphasized Jewish separation while neglecting universal outreach, and post-Enlightenment liberal universalism that privileged universal values at the expense of Jewish distinctiveness. Through theological analysis of covenantal obligations, historical examination of missionary practices, and critical evaluation of contemporary Jewish movements, this research reveals that authentic Jewish universalism demands both preservation of Jewish particularity and active welcoming of sincere converts as fundamental to the covenantal mission. Modern Zionism, rather than contradicting Jewish universalism, reinforces it by providing a spiritual center for the Jewish mission. While contemporary Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform movements have not fully embraced traditional Jewish universalism's missionary implications, signs of self-correction are emerging. The future vitality of Jewish universalism hinges on the community's ability to overcome historical persecution trauma and fully reclaim its covenantal role as "a light unto the nations."

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    Published 1992

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  • Publication Credits

    Lawrence Epstein