The Lasting Influence of Gerhard Kittel, Nazi Theologian

GedaliahMaegil said:

** Please note: the following thread is intended to be discussed among Jews (Messianic and non-Messianic alike) and Messianic gerim. **

I found an interesting article recently by Daniel Botkin, regarding Gerhard Kittel, the writer of a work that some of us may be familiar with, the Theological Dictionary of the New Testament. On a personal level, I have seen that ten-volume set in many a pastor's office in my earlier years, and I don't think they were even aware of the history of the person who wrote it (or, at least, I would hope they were unaware ...).

The article covers the influences his specific history had on the works, as a pro-Hitler supporter of the third reich, and the effect his dictionary had on theology at large in future generations. I would ask the welcomed participants in this thread whether or not they have (a) heard of Kittel, (b) seen his writings and (c) seen the influence on his specific dogmata on present-day adherents of christianity. Also, welcomed participants should feel free to give their thoughts about Kittel and his writings and influence in a generic sense ... within the framework of the forum rules and MJ forum section SOP.

The Lasting Influence of Gerhard Kittel, Nazi Theologian

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Following.

GedaliahMaegil said:

I found an interesting article recently by Daniel Botkin, regarding Gerhard Kittel, the writer of a work that some of us may be familiar with, the Theological Dictionary of the New Testament

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Firstly, I'll address the article with a simple question: Why does the author not quote or cite any part of the TDNT to show us why this extensive body of work is wrong and to be rejected?

Next, I am familiar with the TDNT. I once had a copy of the series. I have a digital copy in my library. I don't use it often these days, but I will look at it once in awhile if I'm doing a study on a certain word and desire to see beyond the lexicons what others have derived and how they got there. I normally try to isolate and set aside where such works may give theological interpretations - this includes any and all lexicons.

I don't think Kittel in the 19th to 20th century is responsible for Christianity to have left the theology of Messianic Judaism as it continues to mature in it's beliefs and deals with it's own theological differentiations. His connection to Hitler is obviously another story and consideration.

If antisemitism is the controlling factor in all work, then there are others to throw out also, like Luther as I recall.

And some jump to conclusions without basis re: SOP

GedaliahMaegil said:

** Please note: the following thread is intended to be discussed among Jews (Messianic and non-Messianic alike) and Messianic gerim. **

I found an interesting article recently by Daniel Botkin, regarding Gerhard Kittel, the writer of a work that some of us may be familiar with, the Theological Dictionary of the New Testament. On a personal level, I have seen that ten-volume set in many a pastor's office in my earlier years, and I don't think they were even aware of the history of the person who wrote it (or, at least, I would hope they were unaware ...).

The article covers the influences his specific history had on the works, as a pro-Hitler supporter of the third reich, and the effect his dictionary had on theology at large in future generations. I would ask the welcomed participants in this thread whether or not they have (a) heard of Kittel, (b) seen his writings and (c) seen the influence of his specific dogmata on present-day adherents of christianity. Also, welcomed participants should feel free to give their thoughts about Kittel and his writings and influence in a generic sense ... within the framework of the forum rules and MJ forum section SOP.

The Lasting Influence of Gerhard Kittel, Nazi Theologian

Click to expand...

My question is to which congregation or church did he join himself to and write for?

GedaliahMaegil said:

He was trained in the Lutheran tradition.

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and that explains a lot of where he lives, is trained to believe...etc...