Torah Study > Chapter 7: Universalism and Particularism > Text 1

What is the difference between “beloved” and “doubly beloved?”

What is the relationship between all people and the Jewish people?

What is the practical significance of being made in the image of God?

What is the practical significance of being the children of God?

What is the significance of being told that this is what we are? What
claims does that make on our lives and our spirits?

In chapter 2, we explored the difference between an “idea” and an “idea
in practice” with respect to this text. That is to say, while it’s a profound
concept that humans are formed in God’s image, it only has real meaning
when humans are actively aware of this concept and allow it to shape their
behavior. Similarly, as it relates to the “chosenness” of the Jewish people,
being called something does not necessarily impact behavior as much as
hearing it directly from the Source.

The notion of Jews having special—not just particular—responsibilities may
cause students some discomfort. By first making a claim about humanity
and then making a claim about Israel, some might read this text as sayiing
that the Jewish people is more beloved to God than other peoples.
However, the text does not say this explicitly. Parental love is not something
that runs out, and holding the status of a beloved child is not necessarily
at the expense of God’s other children. “Beloved” here means that Jews
have a unique, not superior, status which translates into a set of particular
responsibilities.

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How do you feel about the idea of being beloved?

Does your special relationship with your parents or your siblings get
in the way of having caring relationships with others?

 

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