SAMARITANS
WHY THE “JEWS USE NOTHING IN COMMON WITH SAMARITANS”? (JN 4:9)
Biblical References
– John 4:9: “The Samaritan woman said to him, ‘You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?’ (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.)”
– Luke 17:16-18: Jesus refers to a Samaritan as a foreigner.
– Luke 10:29-37: The Parable of the Good Samaritan, where a Samaritan shows compassion.
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
The rift between Jews and Samaritans dates back centuries and is rooted in both political and religious differences.
Historical Conflicts:
– Assyrian Conquest: In 722 BC, the Assyrians conquered the Northern Kingdom of Israel, including Samaria. They relocated many Israelites and brought in foreigners who intermarried with the remaining Israelites, leading to a mixed population with a composite religion (2 Kgs 17).
– Rejection of Temple Rebuilding: When the Jews returned from Babylonian exile, the Samaritans offered to help rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem but were rejected. This led to further animosity (Ezr 4).
– Mount Gerizim Temple: The Samaritans built their own temple on Mount Gerizim, which they considered the true place of worship, rivaling the Temple in Jerusalem.
Religious Differences
– Scriptural Disputes: The Samaritans accepted only the Pentateuch (the first five books of the Bible) and rejected the rest of the Hebrew Scriptures, which contributed to theological disagreements.
– Idolatry Concerns: Jews viewed the Samaritans’ mixed worship practices as idolatrous, which was strictly forbidden in Jewish law (Deuteronomy 7:3-4).
TEACHINGS
The animosity between Jews and Samaritans serves as a powerful backdrop for several of Jesus’ teachings, emphasizing themes of compassion, inclusivity, and breaking down barriers.
Jesus and the Samaritan Woman:
– In John 4:9, Jesus’ conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well highlights His willingness to break social norms and reach out to those considered outsiders. This act demonstrates the inclusive nature of Jesus’ ministry and His message of salvation for all people, regardless of ethnic or religious background.
Parable of the Good Samaritan:
– In Luke 10:29-37, Jesus uses the parable to teach about true neighborly love. The Samaritan, despite being despised by Jews, is portrayed as the hero who shows compassion and mercy. This parable challenges Christians to look beyond prejudices and to love and serve others selflessly.
Healing of the Ten Lepers:
– In Luke 17:16-18, Jesus heals ten lepers, and only one, a Samaritan, returns to thank Him. Jesus acknowledges the Samaritan’s faith, underscoring that God’s grace and mercy extend to all, not just to a specific group.
REFLECTION
The historical and religious rift between Jews and Samaritans provides important context for understanding several New Testament passages. For Christians, these stories convey powerful lessons about breaking down barriers, showing compassion, and embracing inclusivity. Jesus’ interactions with Samaritans exemplify His mission to reach out to the marginalized and to demonstrate that God’s love transcends human divisions.