Knowra Jews as the Chosen People Jews as the Chosen People The belief that God chose the Jewish people for a covenant carrying particular religious obligations and responsibilities. In Jewish thought, chosenness is commonly understood as a calling to obligation, not simply as a claim of superiority.
Covenant in the Hebrew Bible : A binding relationship between God and people, expressed through promises, obligations, or both. Chosenness is framed as a covenantal relationship rather than an isolated privilege.
Deuteronomy : The fifth book of the Hebrew Bible, presenting Moses’ final teachings and Israel’s covenant obligations. Its language links divine choice with Israel’s love, history, and obedience.
Supersessionism : The Christian theological claim that the Church has replaced or succeeded Israel in God’s covenantal role. It disputes whether Israel retains a distinctive covenantal status.
Jewish identity : A sense of belonging to the Jewish people, shaped by religion, ancestry, culture, and history. Chosenness can shape collective identity while carrying meanings beyond ancestry alone.
Abrahamic Covenant : The biblical covenant in which God promises Abraham descendants, land, and blessing. It grounds Jewish election in the biblical promises made to Abraham.
Exodus : The biblical account of Israel’s departure from Egypt and covenant at Mount Sinai. The liberation from Egypt precedes the covenant that gives chosenness concrete obligations.
Replacement theology : A theological view that the Christian Church replaces Israel as God’s covenant people. It is a prominent alternative to Jewish understandings of an enduring covenant.
Aleinu : A Jewish prayer recited in daily services that contrasts Israel’s worship with that of other nations. Its liturgical language has prompted reflection on election, difference, and universal hope.
Sinai Covenant : The covenant at Mount Sinai, where Israel receives the Torah and accepts its commandments. It connects Israel’s chosen status with the obligations of Torah.
Book of Amos : A prophetic book that condemns injustice and warns Israel of divine judgment. Amos insists that Israel’s special relationship entails accountability, not immunity.
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