Expert: Rabbi Barry Dov Lerner - 2/20/2003

Question
Dear Rabbi:  Forgive me, for I know that my questions are going to probably sound naive and stupid to you, and have you end up rolling your eyes.  I am not stupid, but yes, I am naive, but I want to learn!  I am a 42-year-old woman who has always been interested in, as well as sympathetic to the treatment of, people who worship in the Jewish faith through the ages.  A few of my biggest concerns are these:  Why are people of the Jewish religion so persecuted?  Why do some say people of the Jewish religion were responsible for Jesus's death?  Wasn't Jesus "King of the Jews?"  Wasn't it the Romans who killed Jesus?  Also, forgive me, but what is the significance of the "Star of David?"  What is the significance of those funny hairstyles that men of the Jewish faith wear, such as in the movie "Schindler's List?"  What is the reason for those (spelling?) skullcaps?  I want so much to learn, and to know!  I am currently reading the "Left Behind" series of books, which have touched my heart, and I feel that I am a "Christian," a believer in Jesus Christ as God's true Son.  But I have always wanted to learn about the Jewish Faith in depth.  For some reason, it intrigues me.  Any insight you could offer me would be greatly appreciated.  Thank you very much for your time, Mr. Rabbi.  (See how naive I am?  I do not even know how to address you properly with respect, and for this, I apologize.)  My name is Kat.

Answer
Dear Kat,

Thanks for writing.

You've asked a lot of questions and we need tofocus a bit.

Jesus was not King of the Jews and Jesus has no standing or role in Jewish life or history.

Christian theologians have tried to justify the oppression and persecution of the Jews based upon their rejection of Jesus. I obviously think that the persecution are simply the acts of cruel and evil people - not God's will.

Yes, the Romans killed Jesus as Jews had no ability to rule themselves at that time in history.

Ultra-Traditional Jews have chosen not to shave the corners of their head and hence the "ear locks" are a corner which grows long.

Jews cover their head when they pray and study, and many of us today wear them all the time.

A good resource is the jewishencyclopedia.com - don't hesitate to use it.

Best wishes. Study well

Rabbi Dov