From the preface to Karen Armstrong's Jerusalem:
"In the United States, the Christian Right has also hardened its position. They have long believed that the final battle of Armageddon will be fought outside the city, and that Jews must be present in the Holy Land in order to fulfill the ancient prophecies (even though all unbaptised Jews will be massacred by the Antichrist). During the Cold War, Christian fundamentalists regarded the Soviet Union as the Antichrist; since September 11, they have come to believe that Islam will fulfill this role. Their apocalyptic views undoubtedly have an influence on American policy in the Middle East."
This is scary, and exactly what I'm talking about with the effect of third party players in the region-- basically, that they can't be trusted. I have heard/read a bit about the American Evangelicals' interest in Israel and its political implications, but I wonder how aware Israel is that its strongest political ally in the world, depending on the current president in office, may be positioning Israel for the End of Days. Do they realize? Care? Consider it ridiculous and accept the support regardless of its motive?
1 comment:
the end-of-days theology definitely influences the evangelical right in this country. however, it's not the only motivating force behind christian support of israel. there's also a verse from genesis that many people cite: Hashem says, "I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you," referring to the people of israel. i think it's genesis chapter 12 something. so some christians support israel because g-d said it will merit blessings.
like i said in class, lots of people in israel are acutely aware of these christian motives. some view them as benign because any support for israel should be welcomed. althoug, i also met with a jerusalem city council woman who was furious that her country takes millions of dollars from people like john hagee, precisely because she is skeptical of his apocalyptic views. i duno it's another issue of contention in this messy situation.
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