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The
teachings of Jesus Christ. emphasize love, compassion, forgiveness,
and non-violence. In the New Testament, Christ's message of love for
one another, forgiveness, and helping those in need are central
themes. His actions, such as healing the sick and feeding the hungry,
exemplified compassion and care for others. The Golden Rule, "Do
unto others as you would have them do unto you," encapsulates
the spirit of empathy and kindness that Christ advocated. These
principles continue to inspire and guide the lives of millions of
people around the world.
The Bible's Sixth Commandment in the Old Testament states, "Thou
shalt not kill," which is interpreted by many Christians as a
prohibition against murder. Destruction is viewed negatively within
Christian teachings, as the emphasis is often on creation,
preservation, and the sanctity of interpretations of religious
teachings can indeed vary among different Christian denominations and
individual believers. Here are some key points related to the topic:
Interpretations of Religious Teachings:
Different Christian denominations may interpret the Bible and
religious teachings in varying ways, leading to diverse perspectives
on topics such as self-defense and just war theory.
The interpretation of key scriptures, such as passages from
the Old and New Testaments, can significantly influence a
Christian's perspective on issues like self-defense and just war.
Self-Defense in Christian Ethics:
The topic of self-defense within Christian ethics is
multifaceted and can be understood through different theological and
ethical lenses.
Some Christians advocate for the right to self-defense based
on the principle of preserving life and protecting oneself and
others from harm.
Others may emphasize non-violence and the teachings of Jesus,
such as turning the other cheek and loving one's enemies, as guiding
principles in ethical decision-making.
Just War Theory:
Just war theory is a framework within Christian theology that
seeks to establish ethical principles for the use of force and
engagement in warfare.
It outlines criteria for determining when a war can be
considered just, emphasizing concepts such as proportionality, just
cause, and the principle of last resort.
However, even within just war theory, there can be
differences of opinion regarding its application to specific
conflicts and situations.
Complex and Debated Topics:
Both self-defense and just war theory are complex and debated
topics within Christian ethics, with a wide range of viewpoints
existing among theologians, religious leaders, and Christian
communities.
Ethical considerations, theological perspectives, and
real-world circumstances contribute to the ongoing discussions and
debates surrounding these issues.
It's important to recognize the diversity of perspectives within
Christianity and the ongoing dialogue and reflection that shape
ethical understandings within the faith.
However, we still need to remember that we are not dealing with
Christians when referring to the brutality of Israel against unarmed
Palestinian citizens—but Jews who are renowned for their
viciousness right throughout history.
One of the main reasons Israel was their state was because of the
murder of millions of Jews exterminated by the Nazis. In response to
the kindness they have been shown by the United States—they then
turn around and commit the most heinous war crimes in history against
innocent Palestinian civilians.
The difference between self-defense and revenge lies in their
intentions, actions, and outcomes:
Self-defense:
Intention: Self-defense is a response to
protect oneself or others from imminent harm or danger. The intent
is to neutralize the threat and prevent further harm.
Action: It involves using a reasonable
amount of force to stop the attack or threat.
Outcome: The goal is to protect oneself or
others, and once the threat is neutralized, the self-defense ends.
Revenge:
Intention: Revenge is motivated by a desire
to retaliate or inflict harm on the person who committed the initial
attack or wrong.
Action: It often involves disproportionate
or excessive force, and the intent is to harm the aggressor as
payback for the initial attack.
Outcome: The goal is to inflict harm or
suffering on the aggressor, often leading to a cycle of retaliation
and further harm.
In summary, self-defense is about protection and prevention of
harm, while revenge is about retaliation and causing harm in return.
The key distinction lies in the intent and the proportional use of
force.
So that attack by the Palestinian resistance fighters was the
attack that instigated self-defense by Israel has now gone beyond the
norms of a reasonable amount of force and onto a disproportionate or
excessive force, with the intent of killing as many innocent
Palestinians as possible. That is a payback that has now gone onto
one of the most brutal forms of revenge in human history.
While Israel has the right to defend itself, the use of
disproportionate or excessive force by Israel is not justified
because it has led to the loss of life for well over 31,000 innocent
civilians and about 70,000 being seriously injured or maimed. Israel
lost approximately 1300 lives most of which were caused by friendly
fire as a result of Israel defending itself.
It's important to prioritize the protection of human life and
avoid actions that could be considered retaliatory or vengeful.
Instead of pursuing payback, it's important to work towards a
peaceful resolution that respects the rights and dignity of all
parties involved.
However, that is not what Israel has chosen to do. Instead, they
are still intent on killing more and more Palestinians and displacing
them from their land for their benefit to establish illegal
settlements.
Special note: there is nothing in the Bible whatsoever anyone can
point at to offer as proof that God codons these sorts of actions by
Israel. If anyone happens to come forth with verses they claim as
evidence of this false assertion—they are either lying, twisting
the Bible around to suit a misguided perspective—or don't
understand the Bible. That means they are not saved.
It is not
appropriate to use the Bible as a justification for violence or
discrimination. It is a sacred text that is meant to be interpreted
and applied in a way that promotes love, compassion, and
understanding.
There is a special place in Hell for Netanyahu and his cabinet of
war criminals and for those who codon the outright murder Israel is
committing. From there, they will have a long time to mull over their
numerous sins.
Blessings