Traditional Symbols of Judaism Appearing in Christian Settings: Some Jews Fear Their Use Is a Subtle Kind of Conversion Effort

Shulman, Andrew, The Washington Times (Washington, DC)

The recent Christian Bookseller's Association convention in Dallas featured displays of many religious item, including crosses, Bibles and shofars.

Shofars?

The shofar - a ram's horn primarily used in ceremonies to herald the Jewish New Year - is among the numerous Judaic symbols showing up in all sorts of Christian settings. Traditional Jewish prayer shawls are sold in Christian bookstores, while former vice presidential candidate Jack Kemp, a Presbyterian, displays a menorah in his office at Empower America.

Some Jews see the trend in a postive light, but not everyone is happy with this co-opting of symbols. Phyllis Tickle, Publisher Weekly's contributing editor for religion, noticed an increased Jewish presence three years ago at the CBA while researching her book, "God Talk in America."

"Quite frankly, I was amazed," Mrs. Tickle said. "I stopped by and tried to talk to a Jewish fellow . . . [who said] the American market was so strong [for Judaic items] that he moved here from Israel."

Richard Honorof, of Feed My Sheep Ministries in …

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Publication information: Article title: Traditional Symbols of Judaism Appearing in Christian Settings: Some Jews Fear Their Use Is a Subtle Kind of Conversion Effort. Contributors: Shulman, Andrew - Author. Newspaper title: The Washington Times (Washington, DC). Publication date: August 7, 1998. Page number: 2. © 2009 The Washington Times LLC. COPYRIGHT 1998 Gale Group.

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