Some people dislike Jews because of antisemitism, which is an old and harmful form of prejudice, not because there is anything wrong with Jewish people themselves. This prejudice has changed shape over time but always treats Jews as a convenient group to blame.
What antisemitism is
Antisemitism means hostility, stereotypes, or discrimination directed at Jews as a group, whether as a religion, an ethnicity, or a people. It includes everything from hateful jokes and conspiracy theories to violence and genocidal movements like Nazism.
Historical religious roots
In parts of Christian and Muslim history, religious leaders and rulers accused Jews of rejecting the “true” faith or blamed them for religious events, such as the charge that “Jews killed Jesus.” These ideas were used to justify forced conversions, ghettos, expulsions, and periodic massacres.
Being a visible minority
Jews have often lived as a small minority with distinct religious and cultural practices, which made them stand out. When a group is seen as “different” or separate, fearful or angry majorities sometimes project their problems onto that group and treat it as an outsider.
Scapegoating and conspiracy myths
During wars, plagues, and economic crises, Jews were repeatedly scapegoated and accused of secretly causing society’s problems. Modern antisemitism adds conspiracy myths that Jews “control” governments, finance, or media, painting them as all‑powerful and disloyal despite no evidence.
Modern forms and why it’s wrong
Today antisemitism shows up in vandalism, online hate, harassment, and attacks on Jewish people and institutions in many countries. It rests on false myths and dehumanizing stereotypes, and it harms not only Jews but also the societies that tolerate this kind of hatred.
