The question, "How odd of God to choose the Jews," often arises in discussions about faith. It's a question born not necessarily of antisemitism, but of genuine perplexity. Why this particular group? Why not another? This seemingly arbitrary choice, documented in the Bible (Deuteronomy 7:7-8), highlights a larger theme: the inherent “oddness” of God's actions, a theme that permeates both the Old and New Testaments and continues to challenge believers today.
The selection of the Israelites wasn't based on their inherent superiority. In fact, the scriptures often portray them as flawed and rebellious. Yet, God chose them, entering into a covenant that promised blessings and curses, shaping their history in profound ways. This choice, considered by some to be arbitrary, underscores a key aspect of faith: God's actions are not always governed by human logic or easily understood by human reasoning. God's plan transcends human comprehension, operating on principles beyond our immediate grasp.
This initial selection sets the stage for a recurring motif throughout the scriptures. God's actions, from the creation of the universe to the redemption of humanity, often defy conventional wisdom and challenge our expectations. Understanding this inherent "oddness" is crucial for navigating the complexities of faith.
The Paradox of Conversion and Apologetics
The experience of religious conversion often mirrors this initial perplexity. New converts frequently grapple with seemingly inexplicable doctrines and practices. Apologetics, the reasoned defense of faith, plays a crucial role here. It seeks to address these apparent paradoxes, demonstrating that many seemingly unusual aspects of faith are either not as unusual as they first appear or are supported by evidence, both direct and indirect. However, intellectual understanding is only one part of the equation. Emotional acceptance, the true integration of faith into one's being, often requires time, reflection, and spiritual growth. The initial “oddness” might eventually give way to understanding and acceptance, but it is important to acknowledge the process.
Apologetics, therefore, doesn't necessarily aim to eliminate the "oddness" of God's actions but rather to contextualize and explain them within a larger framework of faith. It addresses questions like: Why the virgin birth? Why the crucifixion? Why the resurrection? It seeks to bridge the gap between the human experience of logic and reason and the divine realm of mystery and wonder.
The Inherent Oddness of God’s Actions
The "oddness" of God's actions is far-reaching. Consider the following:
Creation ex nihilo: Creating something from nothing is a concept that defies scientific understanding and human experience.
The vastness of the universe: The sheer scale of the cosmos, with its billions of galaxies and planets, points to a grandeur that dwarfs human comprehension.
The seemingly delayed appearance of humanity: The vast stretches of time before the emergence of humankind further emphasizes the vastness of God's plan.
God's plan of redemption, starting small with Abraham: The seemingly insignificant beginnings of God's plan, with a single family, eventually leading to the salvation of humanity.
The Incarnation: God becoming human through a miraculous birth, a humbling act of unprecedented proportions.
The Trinity: The concept of three persons in one God, a mystery that has baffled theologians for centuries.
God's humility and sacrificial death: The ultimate act of love, choosing self-sacrifice for the redemption of humanity.
The promise of resurrection and final judgment: The hope of eternal life and the reality of accountability.
Each of these points, seemingly odd from a human perspective, is a testament to the boundless nature of God and the unique way in which He interacts with His creation.
Reconciling Human Logic with Divine Action
It's crucial to understand that Isaiah 55:8-9, "My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," highlights the fundamental difference between divine and human understanding. God operates on principles beyond our limited comprehension. The "oddness" of doctrines like the Eucharist, the Immaculate Conception, and the Assumption of Mary should not be surprising, given the already established pattern of God's actions. They are consistent with this overarching theme of divine mystery and paradox.
The question, "How odd of God to choose the Jews," and the broader question of the “oddness” of God’s actions, should not lead to dismissal, but rather to a deeper exploration and understanding. It's a question that invites us to grapple with the limits of human reason and the boundless nature of the divine. Patience and understanding are vital, especially for those new to the faith, allowing them the time and space to reconcile the seemingly paradoxical nature of God's actions with their own understanding of the world. Ultimately, a truly infinite God will inevitably appear odd and unpredictable from a finite human perspective. Embracing this "oddness" is, perhaps, the beginning of true faith.
Why did God choose the Israelites? Doesn't that seem arbitrary?
The essay "How Odd of God" addresses the apparent arbitrariness of God choosing the Israelites, as expressed in the phrase "How odd of God / To choose the Jews." The author argues this isn't inherently anti-Semitic, but reflects a biblical narrative of a seemingly arbitrary yet loving choice (Deuteronomy 7:7-8). This "oddness," however, is presented as a recurring theme in God's actions, not limited to the selection of the Israelites. The choice, while seemingly random from a human perspective, is presented within the context of God's overall plan, which may be beyond our full comprehension.
Isn't it odd that God acts in ways that seem illogical or unpredictable?
Yes, the essay explicitly argues that God's actions frequently defy human logic and expectations. The author points to numerous examples: creation from nothing, the vastness of the universe, the seemingly delayed appearance of humanity, and the complexities of the plan of salvation. These actions are considered "odd" because they aren't predictable based on human understanding. The essay uses Isaiah 55:8-9 ("My thoughts are not your thoughts...") to emphasize the vast difference between divine and human perspectives. This "oddness" is not a flaw, but rather a reflection of God's transcendence and power.
How does the essay address the struggles of new converts with seemingly inexplicable aspects of faith?
The essay acknowledges the challenges faced by new converts grappling with seemingly illogical or counterintuitive doctrines. The author suggests that apologetics—the reasoned defense of faith—can help address these concerns by either demonstrating that these elements aren't as unusual as they initially seem, or by providing evidence supporting them. However, the essay emphasizes that intellectual understanding is not the only factor. Emotional acceptance and faith often require time and a deeper engagement with the spiritual reality.
What are some examples of "odd" divine actions mentioned in the essay?
The essay lists several examples: God's plan of redemption beginning humbly with Abraham; the Incarnation—God becoming man through a miraculous birth; the Trinity; God's humility and sacrificial death; the promise of resurrection and final judgment; and doctrines like the Eucharist, Immaculate Conception, and the Assumption of Mary. All these are presented as "odd" from a human perspective, yet internally consistent within the overall narrative of faith.
Does the essay suggest that God is illogical or irrational?
No, the essay does not portray God as illogical or irrational. Instead, it argues that God's actions are beyond human comprehension and that what seems "odd" from a finite, human perspective is a reflection of God's infinite nature and power. The "oddness" is presented not as a contradiction, but as a consequence of dealing with an infinitely powerful and mysterious being whose ways are not our ways. The essay emphasizes the need for humility and acceptance of the mystery inherent in faith.
