Through My Enemy's Eyes: Envisioning Reconciliation in Israel-Palestine

by Salim J. Munayer

This book addresses the universal theological dimension of reconciliation in the context of the Israeli Messianic Jewish and Palestinian Christian divide. Palestinian Christians and Israeli Messianic Jews share a belief in Jesus as the son of God and Messiah. Often, though, that is all they have in common. This remarkable book, written in collaboration by a local Palestinian Christian and an Israeli Messianic Jew, seeks to bridge this gap by addressing head on, divisive theological issues (as well as their political implications) such as land, covenant, prophecy and eschatology which separate their two communities. The struggle for reconciliation is painful and often extremely difficult for all of us. This unique work seeks to show a way forward. COMMENDATIONS "In a world that wants to see only one side of every conflict (and this one especially), where people believe only their own propaganda, and where many Christians inhabit hard shells of theological, political and apocalyptic certainties, this book is a bravely different voice. Rather, it is two voices talking carefully, honestly, graciously, respectfully and truthfully to each other - as sisters and brothers in the Messiah should. This is a unique conversation in which each partner, Messianic Jewish Israeli and Palestinian Christian, gives full expression to all that they are and think and feel about themselves and the conflict in their land. We are treated to some stretching theological debate and some honest self-criticism. But above all we come to share the hope and courage that shines through the pain and struggle." - Christopher J. H. Wright, International Ministries Director, Langham Partnership, UK "The Palestinian-Israeli divide may be the most intractable conflict of our time. With great courage, honestly facing the turbulent political, historical, and theological landscape which authentic reconciliation must engage, Munayer and Loden open up fresh space. Given the divides between their communities, this book is a remarkable achievement, a cry of hope from the land where Jesus walked." - Chris Rice, Director of the Center for Reconciliation, Duke Divinity School, USA

Genres: Faith

320 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2014

Reviews

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant! Written by a Palestinian Christian and a Messianic Jew...together!!! Reconciliation and a vision for the future - this is a book of hope.

[Richard Lawrence]

A palestinian christian and an israeli "messianic jew" write together about the israel/palestine conflict and the different ideas and beliefs of palestinian christians and israeli "messianic jews"

The book seems like a great idea but could have done with much better editing, it's quite repetitive I think it could have been 50 or 60% of the length whilst still saying everything.

Also - perhaps because the two authors are far apart on some points AND seeking to represent people across an even wider spectrum - they often give several different ideas about something without judging between them; other times they do judge, this seems a little inconsistent.

Content wise, this book gives you a brief précis of the conflict in Palestine/Israel from the late 19th century to the early 2000s and then a survey of the "identity" and practises of Palestinian Christians and Israeli "messianic jews" with a particular focus on points of disagreement/conflict. The last two chapters focus on ways of bridging the divide and what reconciliation could look like - largely focussed on small numbers of each group sitting down and talking things through in light of the Cross.

It's a different and interesting approach; whilst the choice to avoid discussing political solutions to the conflict in israel/palestine may leave some thinking the book is missing the point it does mean it's not out of date.

[Brian Virtue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Offers a lot of helpful history and background to the conflict overall. The focus of it is on exploring the path of reconciliation through the lens of Israeli Messianic Jews and Palestinian Christians. This focus offers hope because of the common ground of their faith, but seems like just as many complexities. But it's a segment where reconciliation and learning are seemingly more feasible than with many other of the demographics involved. I appreciated the examination of the diversity of views within each side and the insight into how each side interprets Scripture and navigates issues of the land. I benefitted greatly from the book and how it was written.

[Laila Collman · Rating 1 out of 5]

I had high hopes for this book, and they were sustained in the beginning with the authors’ emphasis on understanding how history, narratives, & identity influence the various perspectives in the current conflict. This book examines different theological viewpoints with the specific goal of increasing understanding between Messianic Jews and Palestinian Christians. Ultimately, however, all this theological debate just seems to distance us further from any real solution for the violent present day reality. It’s like searching for a light switch while remaining inside a tiny dark cardboard box; the solution is simply never going to be found there! Disappointingly, the authors specifically emphasize the need to move “toward a theology of reconciliation”, and state that true resolution can only be found in Christ. For me, this book was a waste of time.

[Kittovich · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really beautiful book. It’s probably a must read across domains, even if one has no interest in the direct contents of the book. There are many points which could be widely applied. Can’t recommend enough.

[Sophia Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

My head hurts.