The Biblical Mind Is Nationalism Biblical? Yoram Hazony on Nations, Empires, and Justice (Yoram Hazony) Ep. #205
Jun 19, 2025
Yoram Hazony, an Israeli philosopher and author of The Virtue of Nationalism, dives into the complex relationship between nationalism and biblical teachings. He discusses the Old Testament's vision of nations, citing the Table of Nations in Genesis and critiques of empires like Babylon. Hazony argues for the value of independent nations with borders, traditions, and moral guidelines. His insights challenge modern Christian perspectives on nationalism and highlight the Old Testament's relevance in today's political landscape.
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Bible's National Identity View
- The Bible presents Israel as a nation, not just a faith, emphasizing national identity through family and tribal groupings.
- Biblical worldview inherently accepts nations with distinct traditions, linking politics, religion, and heritage.
Biblical Value of Diversity
- The Tower of Babel story critiques the human desire to erase diversity by enforcing uniformity.
- The Bible values nations as diverse entities with separate languages and traditions, opposing homogenizing empires.
OT Political Emphasis vs NT Focus
- The Old Testament is deeply focused on political and communal realities like kingdoms and exile.
- Christians often focus more on personal salvation, missing the Old Testament’s strong political teachings.
