Joint glossary produced by Chief Rabbi and Church of Scotland
A new document, titled A Jewish-Christian Glossary, produced by the Church of Scotland and the Chief Rabbi’s Office, has been published.
The new Glossary explores a variety of biblical terminology, such as “covenant” and “chosen people”, and gives both Jewish and Christian perspectives in relation to identity and history.
One of the publication’s forewords, written by Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis, references an earlier document published by the Church, titled, Inheritance of Abraham? A report on the ‘promised land’, which led to him calling for “a deeper appreciation for each other’s religions”.
Inheritance of Abraham? is a controversial document that was published by the Church of Scotland in 2013. It discusses Christian perspectives on the Land of Israel.
Part of its conclusion reads: “Christians should not be supporting any claims by Jewish or any other people to an exclusive or even privileged divine right to possess particular territory.”
According to the International Definition of Antisemitism, “denying the Jewish people their right to self-determination” is an example of antisemitism.
In his foreword to the new document, the Chief Rabbi concludes: “While this endeavour does not seek to be definitive, I certainly hope that the glossary will provide the impetus for a more constructive conversation and relationship between our two faiths in the years ahead.”
Campaign Against Antisemitism works to raise awareness of antisemitism among all faith and minority communities.
