Faithful Allies: The Religious Roots of America’s Unwavering Support for Israel
The Abrahamic faiths—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—form the bedrock of religious belief for over half of the world’s population. Each of these monotheistic religions traces its spiritual lineage back to Abraham, a patriarchal figure whose covenantal relationship with God established a legacy that continues to shape global faith and geopolitics.
Abraham: The Common Patriarch
Abraham, originally named Abram, emerges from the biblical narratives as a figure of profound faith and obedience. Hailing from Ur in Mesopotamia, he heeded God’s call to leave his homeland and journey to Canaan. There, God established a covenant with him, promising that his descendants would inherit the land and become a great nation.
Judaism: The Firstborn of the Abrahamic Faiths
Judaism traces its roots directly to Abraham. He is recognized as the first Jew, and his covenant with God is foundational for Jewish identity. This covenant was reaffirmed with his son Isaac and grandson Jacob (later renamed Israel). The twelve tribes of Israel, emerging from Jacob’s sons, formed the nascent Jewish nation. The Torah, especially the book of Genesis, recounts these ancestral stories, emphasizing the unique relationship between God and the Jewish people.
Christianity: Spiritual Inheritance through Faith
For Christians, Abraham is a paragon of faith. The New Testament, particularly in the writings of Paul, emphasizes that just as Abraham was justified by his faith in God, so too can Christians be justified through faith in Jesus Christ. While Christianity recognizes its roots in Jewish history and theology, it believes that the covenant’s promises extend beyond the Jewish people to all those who have faith, mirroring Abraham’s faith.
Islam: Abraham the Prophet and Builder of the Kaaba
In Islam, Abraham (or Ibrahim in Arabic) is highly revered as a prophet and messenger. The Quran recounts many of the same stories found in the Hebrew Bible, albeit with variations. Notably, in Islamic tradition, it’s Abraham and his son Ishmael (not Isaac, as in the Jewish tradition) who are tested by God with the command to sacrifice the son. Additionally, Abraham and Ishmael are credited with building the Kaaba in Mecca, making Abraham central to the Islamic pilgrimage of Hajj.
Jerusalem: A City of Convergence
Perhaps no other city embodies the shared Abrahamic heritage like Jerusalem. For Jews, it’s the city of David, the location of the First and Second Temples, and the eternal capital. Christians revere it as the city of Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection. Meanwhile, for Muslims, Al-Quds (Jerusalem) houses Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock, from where they believe the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven.
Conclusion: Shared Roots, Divergent Paths
The Abrahamic lineage establishes a common spiritual ancestry for Jews, Christians, and Muslims. While the religions diverged in beliefs, practices, and interpretations over time, their shared reverence for Abraham offers potential grounds for dialogue and mutual understanding. In the context of the U.S.-Israel relationship, recognizing these shared roots can provide a deeper appreciation of the religious dimensions influencing political and cultural ties.