The Rise of Bonhoeffer
The Roots of Antisemitism and Bonhoeffer’s Paradigm of Resistance
Oct 28, 2024
Victoria J. Barnett, a leading expert on the Holocaust and the German churches, examines the complex interplay of religion and politics in Nazi Germany. The discussion sheds light on the historical roots of antisemitism, emphasizing the church's troubling complicity. Barnett delves into Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s moral struggles and resistance against state oppression, highlighting his internal conflict and courage in the face of societal pressures. Listeners gain insight into Bonhoeffer’s theological reflections and the church's crucial role in advocating for justice.
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast explores the deep historical roots of Christian antisemitism, highlighting Martin Luther's influence on anti-Jewish sentiments in theology.
- Dietrich Bonhoeffer's advocacy for Jewish rights underscores the church's moral obligation to resist state oppression amid the rise of Nazism.
Deep dives
The Historical Roots of Oberammergau's Passion Play
The Passion Play in Oberammergau, a notable cultural event, was born out of the community's desperation during a plague that ravaged Germany 300 years ago. In a bid for salvation, local leaders resolved to reenact Christ's story every decade, believing this pious act would deliver them from their suffering. This tradition has persisted, with communities coming together to perform the eight-hour play that covers Christ's journey from his entry into Jerusalem to his ascension. However, this historical backdrop carries troubling associations, as the play was previously praised by Adolf Hitler, who viewed it as an illustration of anti-Semitic sentiment, casting a shadow over its current iterations and interpretations of its legacy.
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