Chapter VII, Judaism, Meaning in History, Summary and Analysis

The exact opposite of an indifferent view of history, the Jewish concept looks at history as highly significant, revealing the contest of life that delineates methods of handling problems and taking advantage of opportunities. It draws on the historical collective action that is capable of bringing about change. It opens fields of opportunity because the hand of Yahweh is at work in every situation. Furthermore, the opportunities are not monotonously alike with each being unique. Without the benefit of history, it might not be possible to recognize those opportunities when they arise. With their different concept of God, the Jews outlook is that God transcends immediate reality and those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it. In this respect, Judaism lays the groundwork for social protest.