World Enemy: The Roots of Jewish Hatred

by Martin Goldberg

From their genesis, the Jewish People have come into conflict with neighboring civilizations and tribes, often to brutal ends. Alternatively condemned for failing to assimilate—or doing so too well—Hebrews embodied an eternal enigma in the eyes of the surrounding world. At times tolerated for building industry and providing financial services, they were jointly hated as enslavers of the masses through harmful usury, leading to violent pogroms and expulsions. Even to this day, the State of Israel serves as a polarizing force throughout the world, admired by some for its distinct advancements, and condemned in different circles for policies towards Palestine.

Against such historical competitions, students of the past may emerge confused about anti-Jewish sentiments and their origins. In response, Martin Goldberg’s World Enemy provides a comprehensive assessment of the plight facing Jews across the fields of time, deciphering just why members of the Tribe were loathed, and to what extent these sentiments can be blamed uniquely on their behavior. Breaking with the usual Zionist propaganda or crude, anti-Jewish screeds, Goldberg investigates the issue using a balanced formulation of sources to hone in on the truth, regardless of its discomforting implications.

302 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 11, 2025

Reviews

[Ted · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are (obvious) reasons to be apprehensive about a book like this from the particular author, but it was a welcome surprise. Rather than dismissing the blood libel, for instance, he references cases leading up to modern times that give credence, and avoids demonizing Toaf as most apologists are guilty of.

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found the sections on banking and slavery rather interesting. Lots of other factoids scattered about that were new to me as well.