5 - The Why of Antisemitism

Summary

This chapter examines the metaphysical origins of antisemitism, what drives the phenomenon, and what exactly antisemitism is anti-. Antisemitism, it is argued, cannot be reduced to a form of racism or bigotry. The Nazis, for example, were not antisemites because they were racists; rather, they were racists because they were antisemites: They had to establish an antisemitic premise in order to arrive at a racist outlook. Antisemitism is not a form of racism; rather, racism is a form of antisemitism. The Why of antisemitism is to be found in a fundamental opposition to a fundamental teaching from Judaism concerning the sanctity of the other human being, particularly the stranger. It lies in an ascent to the divine Throne of Judgment on the part of the antisemite, who now determines truth and lie, good and evil, salvation and damnation. Thus the Why of antisemitism lies in succumbing to the most ancient of temptations, the temptation to be like God.