For years, it has been my understanding that the main difference between Jews and Christians or Judaism and Christianity is the nonbelief or belief of Christ having risen from the dead and being the Messiah. Correct me if I am wrong, but by saying, “even our Rabbit was stunned, it seems that you were stunned by what the minister said.

Were you stunned? What is your understanding about the primary difference between Jews and Christians when it comes to Jesus Christ and his resurrection?

Thank you for your reflection. I have been a daily reader of A Catholic Moment and, therefore, I am familiar with your references to your wife being Jewish and about Judaism. I enjoy your reading your reflections.

In her reflection of April 9, 2019, which was on the first reading of that day, Wisdom 2:1a, 12-22 (https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/040519.cfm), Laura Kazlas talked about having spoken that week to a Jewish rabbi, who is a chaplain at the prison where she is a volunteer. Laura mentioned that the rabbi had said that to this day, his people believes the authorities were justified in crucifying Jesus and that they are still waiting on the messiah. The rabbi feels like the whole story of Jesus, who claimed to be the son of God, was built on lies and rumors. Laura also pointed out that the rabbi truly felt like Jesus deserved to be crucified. Here is a link to that reflection: https://www.acatholic.org/friday-april-5-2019-the-hidden-things-of-god/

Additionally, years ago, I had asked a priest during a monthly “Faith & Food” event that my parish in Fairfax, VA stopped having after the COVID-19 pandemic began (great event held at a restaurant over appetizers/dinner and drinks where one of our priests gives a talk on a particular subject) what the difference is between Judaism and Christianity. The priest said that Jews do not believe that Jesus rose from the dead and is the Messiah. Therefore, I was not surprised years later when I read Laura’s reflection.

What surprised me is that you stated, “even our Rabbi was stunned”, at the minister’s belief that she “did not view as being historical in Christianity was the story of the Resurrection of Christ”. The word use of the word, “even”, suggests that you (and others) were stunned as well. Perhaps, you were not surprised.

As you know more about Judaism or the beliefs of Jews than I do, I would appreciate your clarification on whether or not you were surprised to hear what the minister said and, based on your understanding of Judaism, whether the main difference between Jews and Christians is indeed about the belief that Christ rose from the dead.

Thank you and God bless you and your family.