Homilies Against the Jews

<p>John Chrysostom (347-407 AD) was perhaps the most important early Father of the Christian Church. He was born and rose to fame in the city of Antioch in the south of present-day Turkey. His extensive knowledge of the Bible and his oratorical gifts made him a figure of renown already by his late 30s.</p><p></p><p>As both a city of theological learning and one of the great crossroads of the ancient world Antioch also became home to a large Jewish population. Thus there was much interaction between Jews and Christians-and much conflict. As recounted in the New Testament Jews played a pivotal role in the crucifixion of Jesus and thus were hated on that count alone. But worse were the many accusations of immorality and criminality laid against them: they are crude materialists living only for money and sensual pleasure; they cheat in business; they are gluttons and drunkards; they are liars and deceivers; and they hate mankind. </p><p></p><p>Chrysostom took note of all these Jewish failings and in 386 AD crafted a series of eight homilies or sermons each attacking the some aspect of the Jews. These homilies against the Jews constitute the earliest extended anti-Jewish tract in history and stands-along with Martin Luther's <em>On the Jews and Their Lies</em>-as one of the harshest Christian critiques of the Hebrews ever written.</p><p></p><p>This book will be of profound interest to Christians and non-Christians alike. For the religious it stands as a reminder of the forceful views that once held sway in the Church. For others it demonstrates the striking persistence over centuries of the many Jewish faults; indeed this work suggests that nothing less than drastic action will be required to free society from adverse Jewish influences. </p><p></p><p> </p><p></p>