The resurgence of antisemitism in modern times is highlighted as an ancient form of hatred rooted in religious and cultural persecution. The article underscores how social media has amplified this ancient evil, raising it as a pressing concern. It argues for a strategy of shunning rather than engaging with antisemitism, emphasizing condemnation and the refusal to acknowledge hate speech as the most effective responses.
The article traces the historical roots of antisemitism, dating back at least to the third century BC in Hellenistic Egypt, where Jews were persecuted for refusing to adopt the religious and social customs of their conquerors. It also highlights the role of the Roman Catholic Church in institutionalizing antisemitism, particularly during the Middle Ages through Vatican II, but notes its condemnation of antisemitism since the 1960s.
Catholics, at least, are obliged to condemn and entirely reject antisemitism, as affirmed by Pope John Paul II’s efforts to reconcile the Church with Jews and the State of Israel. His successor, Pope Benedict XVI, continued this work by visiting Auschwitz and acknowledging the Church’s historical role in the persecution of Jews. The article calls for continued vigilance and condemnation of antisemitism, especially in light of its alarming rise on the left and far-right in America.
The piece emphasizes that while public figures should avoid elevating antisemitic voices without condemnation, they must also remain vigilant against the spread of this hatred through social media. It concludes that shunning is the best response to antisemitism, as engaging with it can be seen as rewarding, and only evil can come from such interactions.