Agreeing to Disagree: How Jews and Christians Interpret the Same Scriptures Differently

PLEASE NOTE: THIS EVENT WILL TAKE PLACE AT ASYLUM HILL CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH

Asylum Hill Congregational Church is partnering with Hartford International University to present, “Agreeing to Disagree: How Jews and Christians Interpret the Same Scriptures Differently,” featuring renowned scholar Dr. Amy-Jill Levine. All are welcome to this program where Dr. Levine will offer a talk on the sometimes divergent ways that Jews and Christians interpret shared Bible passages, including the “suffering servant” in Isaiah, the Garden of Eden, Psalm 22, the role of the Law, and more.

This free IN PERSON ONLY program will take place on Thursday, March 6, from 6:00-8:00pm at Asylum Hill Congregational Church and is open to all who wish to engage in a respectful and thought-provoking exploration of how sacred texts are understood differently within Jewish and Christian traditions. Following the presentation there will be time for questions and fellowship.

Dr. Amy-Jill Levine is a distinguished scholar in New Testament and Jewish Studies, and will guide attendees through key theological and historical differences between Judaism and Christianity on several biblical texts and explore why and how these sacred writings have been interpreted in different ways. Key topics include:

• Isaiah 7:14: Examining the differences between the translation of “pregnant woman” versus “virgin.”
• The “Suffering Servant” in Isaiah: Does this figure refer to Israel or to Jesus Christ? How do these divergent interpretations influence the faiths?
• The Garden of Eden: Is the story one of “original sin,” as many Christians believe, or does it present an “original opportunity” for humanity’s free will, as understood in Judaism?
• The Land of Israel: How do Jewish and Christian perspectives differ on the significance of the land of Israel?
• The Role of the Law: What is the purpose of the Torah, and how is it understood differently in the two traditions?
• Psalm 22: How do Jews and Christians interpret this psalm, particularly considering the Christian belief of the crucifixion?

“We are thrilled to host Dr. Levine for this important talk,” said Rev. Erica Thompson, Senior Minister of Asylum Hill Congregational Church. “During Advent, we examined her book, Light of the World: A Beginner’s Guide to Advent, where we explored the biblical texts surrounding the story of the birth of Jesus. Dr. Levine’s ability to bridge the gap between Jewish and Christian perspectives provides a unique opportunity to better appreciate both traditions.”

This is a free event, and all are welcome to attend.

About Dr. Amy-Jill Levine:
Dr. Amy-Jill Levine is the Rabbi Stanley M. Kessler Distinguished Professor of New Testament and Jewish Studies at Hartford International University for Religion and Peace. She is also the University Professor of New Testament and Jewish Studies Emerita, and the Mary Jane Werthan Professor of Jewish Studies Emerita, Professor of New Testament Studies Emerita at Vanderbilt University.