Jewish vs Christian Concepts of God

Jewish vs Christian Concepts of God

Danielle Bryant
3 November 2011
Jewish and Christian concepts of God in relation to transcendent and immanent aspects have similarities but also a cornucopia of differences. Transcendence is defined as being beyond all finite things (Esposito G1), whereas immanence is defined as God being direct and immediate (Caraway 12). Both are relations to God; however, go about such in entirely different manners. Transcendence in Christianity can be found in the Acts of the Apostles in the Bible and transcendence in Judaism can be found in the Book of Genesis, as stated, both are found within the bible; however, the transcendent relation rather than translation with God is what distinguishes the two religions (Caraway 10). Immanence in Christianity can be found in the Matthew’s Gospel and, once again, for Judaism the example can be found in Genesis (Caraway 7). Christianity and Judaism are very similar and deeply rooted within another as both are Abrahamic religions and monotheistic faiths (Caraway 1). However, the two religions differ in relation to Jesus, which alters the way in which transcendence and immanence is defined.
For Judaism transcendence and immanence can be found in the Book of Genesis. The transcendent example is when Abraham hears God and makes the covenant. This is a key factor in the foundation of Judaism as it states that all nations will be blessed both, thus the promise is both universal and particular (Caraway 7). This is an example of transcendence because when God speaks to Abraham it is not through a tangible item but rather in spiritual sense. The transcendence of this event is what makes it particular to the Jewish faith because God is speaking to his chosen people in a way nearly incomprehensible (Caraway 3). The example of immanence is in Jewish mysticism as mystics’ relationship with God is direct and immediate. Jewish mystics view Judaism in a mystical dimension and undermine traditional authority as they go past rabbis and priests...

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