In the "The Misunderstood Jew," scholar Amy-Jill Levine helps Christians and Jews understand the "Jewishness" of Jesus so that their appreciation of him deepens and a greater interfaith dialogue can take place. Levine's humor and informed truth-telling provokes honest conversation and debate about how Christians and Jews should understand Jesus, the New Testament, and each other.

Reviews

It is a simple truth that Jews and Christians should be close friends, since they share common roots and a basic ethical system. But the gulf between the groups seems vast. Levine, professor of New Testament studies at Vanderbilt, presents a strong and convincing case for understanding Jesus as "a Jew speaking to Jews," and for viewing Christianity as a Jewish movement that ultimately swept the world in its influence and authority. But with this expansion came an insidious anti-Jewish sentiment, fed by some New Testament texts (wrongly understood, the author urges) and the emerging political power of the Christian church. Levine does a masterful job of describing the subtleties of anti-Semitism, across the years and across the religious spectrum, from the conservative evangelical mission to convert the Jews to the liberation theologians who picture Jews as adherents to an older, less merciful religion. In the end, Levine offers a prescription for healing and mutual understanding; a chapter titled "Quo Vadis?" outlines steps that can be taken by Jews and Christians alike to bridge the divide that has caused so much suffering over the centuries. Written for the general public, this is an outstanding addition to the literature of interfaith dialogue. (Jan.) Copyright 2006 Reed Business Information.

"Passionate, witty, and compelling . . . Levine's depth of knowledge and understanding are evident on every page. . . . There is much food for thought in this wonderful book."--Biblical Interpretation

Levine (New Testament studies, Vanderbilt Univ. Divinity Sch.) here seeks to shed light on the Jewish message of Jesus and his followers. She explains that Jesus's message is "very Jewish" and that understanding his connection to Judaism can enlighten Bible students of any faith. Levine examines many Jesus parables familiar to New Testament readers but does so in a Jewish light, showing the particular characteristics that would have "provoked, challenged, and disturbed" Jesus's audience. By identifying with this audience, the reader can better understand the intent and purpose of Jesus himself. Scholarly to the hilt yet enjoyable and easy to understand, this book does not point the finger of blame, but instead sets about to teach, or reteach, what has become very familiar to New Testament readers. For example, the reader is asked to reexamine the Lord's Prayer through Jewish eyes and to see that it, in a very Jewish way, "fosters belief, promotes justice, and consoles with future hope." Such insights are valuable and important for anyone seeking to grasp the New Testament. Highly recommended.-Wesley A. Mills, Empire State Coll., SUNY Copyright 2006 Reed Business Information.