ash writes to the college paper:
early 70’s
As a Jew turned anti-institutionalized religion some 12 years ago, ;I have had many years in which to observe what appears to me as the incredible snobbery, self-righteousness and presumptuousness of all established religion but more so the Western faiths. Particularly do I find this true of Judaism which, while notably Catholicism is infinitely more blatant, expresses its attitudes of exclusivity and superiority in a more objectionable if subtle manner. For while Christianity basically consists of countless and complicated practices which the believer accepts more often through conditioning than their inherent truth, Judaism prides itself on the lack of ritualistic fervor, symbols, and miracles (save that the Jews are not extinct) which to the Jew reflect mere superstition and indiscretion.
Incidentally, it is this lack or emptiness of spirit if not customs which induced me to abandon Judaism so young: as a Christian I’m sure it would have taken several years longer. Consequently, Jesus Christ as the central figure of Christianity is never given the honor of even skeptical investigation or controversy. As a child I learned never to consider the man upon whom has been heaped untold tribute and servitude, but to dismiss him out of Jewish sophistication as “unkosher,” ie in poor taste.
Mike Bellows last Friday in fact stated the article was a “tasteless affront” which leads me to suspect he has been successfully brainwashed into regarding himself and other Jews as beyond such a purely emotional concept as Jesus Christ. “Jesus Freaks” might take note of this; it may well explain why many Jews are absolutely impenetrable to any appeal or convincing testimony you may offer. Indeed, a Jew who converts is likely to embarrass his family.
Unfortunately, I didn’t see the March 24 ad which prompted Mike Bellows’ letter, though the phrase he quoted for condemnation that Judaism is an excuse to remain immune to Christ I agree with completely. However, this in no way means I give Christ more credit of appreciate any group or single-handed effort to promote any religious figure: Jesus, Mohammed, Krishna or Timothy Leary notwithstanding. But it is not as a Jew I am insulted, rather as an individual who has developed a personal religious philosophy do I reject the utter certainty of some Christians that Christ equals God which causes them to become condescending to the unresponsive listener.
Simply, since no religion can be proven, all are speculative, possibilities at best, which should be forced on no one. Thus, Jews hold no monopoly on the freedom not to be subjected to pressure to “share the good news” about Jesus.
