“When it comes to the heart and soul of the Jewish faith - the law of Moses - Jesus was adamant that his mission was not to abolish the law but to fulfill it (Matthew 5:17). That law made a clear distinction between relations among Jews and relations between Jews and foreigners. The oft-repeated commandment "love your neighbor as yourself" was originally given strictly in the context of internal relations within Israel. The verse in question reads: "You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against any of your people , but shall love your neighbor as yourself" (Leviticus 19:18). To the Israelites, as well to Jesus's community in first-century Palestine,"neighbor" meant one's fellow Jews. With regard to the treatment of foreigners and outsiders, oppressors and occupiers, however, the Torah could not be clearer: "You shall drive them out before you. You shall make no covenant with them and their gods. They shall not live in your land" (Exodus 23:31-33)”
Quote by Reza Aslan
Work
Zealot: The Life and Times of Jesus of Nazareth
Browse quotes and source details for this work. more
Author
Reza Aslan
Reza Aslan is an American writer, scholar, and television personality known for his research and writing on religion, history, and culture. Born on May 3, 1972, Aslan has gained recognition for his works that cover topics such as Islam, Christianity, and religious freedom. more
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