by moggy lover 5 Replies latest watchtower bible
Several years ago, probably about the 1980s, I recall reading a reference to the term "am-haaretz" [literally "people of the earth/land" a 1C AD Jewish term used by the Pharisees as a pejorative to refer to rustic, peasant people] in the Watchtower magazine in association with how Watchtower followers were to treat disfellowshipped ones.
Can anyone recall this and find this reference, or am I dreaming it all up?
I have searched on am-haaretz and am haretz and the the last reference was in the early 70's. None of the mentions was about treating disfellowshipped people. Almost the opposite in fact, as they say how Jesus spoke to the Am hartez when the Pharisees did not.
Moggy Lover, I recall a reference about 3 years ago due to the fraudulent JW elder I work with. My recolection is the same as your reference... Will try and dig up the article.
moggy lover.
Probably, is it not "disfellowshipped ones" but "unbelievers"?
*** g97 9/8 p. 13 “No Part of the World”—What Does It Mean? ***
The Pharisees even had a denigratory term for non-Pharisees. The Hebrew term am ha'a′rets was originally used in a positive way to designate regular members of society. But in time the arrogant religious leaders of Judah changed the sense of am ha'a′rets to one of opprobrium. Other groups, including professed Christians, have used terms such as “pagan” and “heathen” in a derogatory way to designate people with religious beliefs different from theirs.
How, though, did the first-century Christians view those who had not embraced Christianity? Jesus’ disciples were admonished to treat unbelievers “with mildness” and “deep respect.” (2 Timothy 2:25; 1 Peter 3:15) The apostle Paul set a good example in this regard. He was approachable, not arrogant. Instead of lifting himself above others, he was humble and upbuilding. (1 Corinthians 9:22, 23) In his inspired letter to Titus, Paul gives the admonition “to speak injuriously of no one, not to be belligerent, to be reasonable, exhibiting all mildness toward all men.”—Titus 3:2.
In the Bible the term “unbeliever” is at times used to designate non-Christians. However, there is no evidence that the word “unbeliever” was used as an official designation or label. Certainly, it was not used to belittle or denigrate non-Christians, as this would be contrary to Bible principles. (Proverbs 24:9) Jehovah’s Witnesses today avoid being harsh or arrogant toward unbelievers. They consider it rude to label non-Witness relatives or neighbors with derogatory terms. They follow Bible counsel, which states: “A slave of the Lord . . . needs to be gentle toward all.”—2 Timothy 2:24.
possible
Thanks JWF, Mattieu and possible-san for the input. It has ben invaluable in my research.
Guess my memory ain't what it used to be!
It was in the "Greatest Man" book too, if I recall correctly.
BTS
