What does it mean to say that the Jews are Gods chosen people Discuss Essay

What does it mean to say that the Jews are Gods chosen people Discuss with reference to the concept of covenant - Essay Example ir demographics and any other factor or variable, it is one of their religious beliefs that is more attention catching and debatable than anything else in the case of Jews. It is an observation that Jews have repeatedly emphasised on their superiority over all other creatures based on their religion. In specific, they call themselves as the covenants of God. According to the definition of the term ‘covenant’, it refers to any mutual agreement or understanding between two parties in the light of some terms and conditions enclosing some do’s and don’ts (Jospe, Madsen & Ward, pp. 52-59). Quite understandably, Jews hold the belief, based on religious historical events and their scriptures that they have an agreement with the God, which binds the God to prefer them on others. In return, Jews would have to follow the laws, rules, and regulations of the God through the prophets that He sent. In this regard, this paper is an attempt to analyse and examine the same belief of Jews as God’s chosen people based on scrutiny of the concept of covenants. In addition, this paper would not merely discuss the reasons for this belief but would also try to explore the alternative views and criticism on this idea. Like any other monotheistic religion of the world, quite understandably, Jewish people believe in one God. However, they, at the same time, also are of the view that there is some sort of special pact or agreement between them and God, and that Jews are obliged to abide by the laws of God than any other people. The major reason of such belief being that it would be the Jews, leading from the front when Messiah would come back to bring order in the world near the Day of Judgment (Solomon, pp. 256-260). Moreover, for all this activity, Israel would be the center and Jews would be the vehicle. According to Jewish traditions, Abraham was first one with whom God made a covenant. According to the chapter 12 of Book of Genesis, God told Abraham, â€Å"I will make you a

The New Testament and Culture Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

The New Testament and Culture - Research Paper Example Racial mix up has reduced ethnic differences as communities continue coming to a common understanding of the New Testament. Professional athletes have also been depicted as a falsely glorified group. The glorification has been portrayed as a short-lived affair that lasts as long as the professionals remain popular in the game. There after, they are forgotten. Parables in the New Testament have been illustrated as awe inspiring narratives that carry their own meaning. They are portrayed as having a significant impact on literature. Hofsted defines culture as a tool that the mind applies to guide a person’s day to day activities and interactions with others. He believes that culture is a collective aspect of a population that has occupied a particular social environment where individuals learn unique norms and also develop standards that guide their behavior. These behaviors make a distinction between cultures since all individuals in a particular culture share norms and customs (Hofstede, 65). The New Testament conflicted most of the cultural practices especially those concerned with worship. Generally, societies had their own way of worship and believed in supernatural powers that influenced their existence. For example, God was regarded as the Supreme Being and the giver of life, similar to the belief in the New Testament. However, the ways of worship changed when people could no longer speak to God and offer sacrifices in shrines. The New Testament emphasizes on new ways of worship and faith as well as adoration of people with unique talents such as those of modern athletes. Ethnic practices such as traditional dance, marriages and burial rights among other aspects of traditional lifestyles were overshadowed by the New Testament (Johnson, 112). The New Testament had a great influence on social identity of communities globally. When people belong to a certain social grouping, they develop a sense of