The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) welcomed as
“an important and historic moment” the publication of a new book by Pope
Benedict XVI that includes a sweeping exoneration
of the Jewish people for the death of Jesus.
Pope Benedict’s book, “Jesus of
Nazareth – Part II,” excerpts of which were released today, builds an
argument against the anti-Jewish concept of “deicide” through a thorough
reading and analysis of the Gospels, leading to his conclusion that
there is no basis in scripture for the claim that Jews are collectively
responsible for the death of Jesus.
The anti-Semitic deicide charge contributed to centuries of persecution of the Jewish people.
ADL National Director Abraham H. Foxman said in a special
statement: "This is an important and historic moment for Catholic-Jewish
relations, as Pope Benedict XVI is now moving ahead with implementing
the second phase of Vatican II. It is especially significant because it
deepens and gives historians context crucial in having the doctrine
expressed in 'Nostra Aetate' translated down to the pews."
"The 1965 Second Vatican Council document 'Nostra Aetate' rejected
the deicide charge on theological grounds. But continuing in this
tradition with specificity, Pope Benedict has rejected the previous
teachings and perversions that have helped to foster and reinforce
anti-Semitism through the centuries."
"The
fact that this pope is a theologian, and has served as a defender of
the faith, makes this statement from the Holy See that much more
significant for now and for future generations. He is continuing in the
storied tradition of Pope John Paul II in rejecting the calumny of those
charges and in taking 'Nostra Aetate' and Vatican II to the next
level."