Why the Jewish Story Must Transcend Antisemitism

Einstein once remarked, “If I had an hour to solve a problem, I would spend 55 minutes thinking about the problem and only five minutes thinking about solutions.” His insight underscores the importance of understanding root causes before crafting effective solutions.

Problems often mask deeper issues, and antisemitism is no exception. Addressing its overt expressions without probing its underlying layers will lead to incomplete strategies.

Two common approaches to combating antisemitism are raising awareness about its prevalence and impact and promoting Holocaust education to counter prejudice. While well-intentioned, these methods alone are insufficient. Recent studies suggest that focusing solely on the history of antisemitism, without providing a broader understanding of Jewish history, culture, and values, may even backfire.

A study by the Texas Holocaust, Genocide, and Antisemitism Advisory Commission highlights this risk: “Students should be introduced to the themes of who the Jews are and what Judaism is before any Holocaust instruction occurs. Otherwise, students will be inclined to perceive Jews as natural and inevitable targets of persecution.”

This aligns with a broader truth articulated by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: “I am convinced that men hate each other because they fear each other. They fear each other because they don’t know each other.”

To truly combat antisemitism, we must go beyond recounting Jewish suffering. The narrative must center on the full story of the Jewish people—their history, culture, and enduring values.

Our enemies  thrive on distorting history and spreading falsehoods. Any effort to counter such narratives must begin with reclaiming the Jewish story from the beginning. As the lyrics of “Do-Re-Mi” remind us: “Let’s start at the very beginning. A very good place to start.”

Moreover, Jewish identity must not be defined by the hatred it has endured. As President Chaim Herzog once lamented, “Young Jews in the diaspora often know more about Hitler than about their own ancestors—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.”

Our story is far greater than persecution. It is a chronicle of resilience, hope, and perseverance—a triumph of freedom over oppression, light over darkness, and values over adversity.

Silence about the richness of Jewish life creates a dangerous void. As the saying goes, “Nature abhors a vacuum.” If those committed to decency do not amplify the Jewish story, others, driven by prejudice, will.

The Jewish story is not one of victimhood but of profound resilience. It is a testament to an enduring legacy of hope, strength, and timeless values that continue to inspire humanity. 

It is the greatest story ever told, and we should never be afraid to share it.