Why Christianity Doesn't Embrace Many Jewish Traditions

Throughout history, Christianity has developed from its Jewish roots, yet it has carved out a distinct path that often diverges from traditional Jewish practices and teachings. While one might argue that Christianity intentionally simplified Judaism to make its message more accessible to a broader audience, the differences are profound and go beyond mere simplification. This article explores these differences and the historical context that led to such changes.

The Foundation of Jewish Practices

Jewish customs and traditions are deeply rooted in religious teachings, forming a complex and intricate system of commandments and rituals. These practices are not merely "customs" but are foundational to the Judaic faith, requiring extensive study and understanding. An individual with no prior knowledge of Judaism can find themselves utterly lost in the midst of a religious service. Much of the text in the Torah, such as the concept of God's omnipotence, presents theologians with a myriad of questions that challenge the literal interpretation of these texts.

Theological Dilemmas

For instance, if God is absolute and omnipotent, how do we understand attributive terms like "angry," "pleased," or "wishes"? These terms humanize and limit God, making it difficult to reconcile them with the concept of divine infallibility. The Torah, while rich in content, often requires a deep understanding to grasp its true meaning. Overcoming these theological barriers was one of the primary achievements of the early Christian community.

The Role of the Apostle Paul

The contributions of the Apostle Paul played a crucial role in transforming Jewish practices into the Christian framework we know today. Paul's efforts to simplify and recontextualize Jewish teachings were not met with enthusiasm by all Jews, as modern Christians are often unaware of the significant changes that occurred. Paul's approach was indeed revolutionary, yet it faced resistance and required an understanding of the spiritual and theological shifts necessary for the growth of the Christian faith.

Basics of Biblical Interpretation

Understanding the kosher dietary laws, the observance of the Sabbath, and other customs is a significant barrier for many, as these practices have clear rules and traditions that differ markedly from contemporary lifestyles. The prohibition against working on the Sabbath, the intricate rules of cleanliness and diet, and the elaborate rituals all contribute to a religious practice that many find overly restrictive and complex.

The Influence of Jesus

Jesus himself contributed to the evolution of Jewish traditions through His teachings and metaphorical language. He used the metaphor of new wine and wineskins, found in Matthew 9:16–17, to illustrate the concept of a fresh understanding of Judaism. Jesus emphasized the importance of relationship and understanding over rigid adherence to tradition.

Jesus' Metaphor

By comparing an old garment to a garment of outdated traditions and new wine to a new understanding, Jesus implied that the current practices and teachings (the old wineskin) were no longer sufficient to contain the new insights and understanding (the new wine). The old traditions, he suggested, would be destroyed or rendered obsolete if new wine (new understanding) was poured into them.

Conclusion

Christianity and Judaism indeed remain deeply connected at their core, but the differences in their practices and teachings are significant. The simplification and recontextualization of Jewish traditions by Paul, coupled with the metaphorical guidance of Jesus, led to a profound transformation. These changes not only made Christianity more accessible to a broader audience but also allowed the religion to grow and evolve into what it is today.