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Proselytes
Proselytes. Converts to a religion, and especially (because formally defined and controlled) to Judaism. Proselytism was widespread in the second Temple period. Once converted, the proselyte is given a new name and is described as ‘Ben’ or ‘Bat’ Avraham (son or daughter of Abraham). He is cut off from his previous family and must observe all the precepts which bind Jews. A female proselyte may not marry a priest (B.Yev. 60b), but may marry a mamzer (B.Kid. 4. 7); and a male proselyte may not be appointed to any Jewish public office (B.Yev. 45b). However, once the canons of the Christian Church had forbidden ‘Judaizing’, proselytism became increasingly rare.
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Cite this article
JOHN BOWKER. "Proselytes." The Concise Oxford Dictionary of World Religions. 1997. Encyclopedia.com. 27 May. 2012 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>. JOHN BOWKER. "Proselytes." The Concise Oxford Dictionary of World Religions. 1997. Encyclopedia.com. (May 27, 2012). http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O101-Proselytes.html JOHN BOWKER. "Proselytes." The Concise Oxford Dictionary of World Religions. 1997. Retrieved May 27, 2012 from Encyclopedia.com: http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O101-Proselytes.html |
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proselytes
proselytes Converts to Judaism, who had gone farther than the mere sympathizers called ‘God-fearers’ or ‘worshippers of God’ (Acts 13: 16; 16: 14). Proselytes had taken the final steps for which circumcision, baptism, and a sacrificial offering were required. They were generally as opposed to Christianity as born-Jews, but some pagans who were attracted to the ethical monotheism of Judaism but repelled by its ceremonial and legal restrictions welcomed the Gospel. Christianity spread rapidly among these, causing resentment amongst Jews who regretted the loss of potential proselytes (Acts 18: 12–17; cf. Matt. 23: 15).
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Cite this article
W. R. F. BROWNING. "proselytes." A Dictionary of the Bible. 1997. Encyclopedia.com. 27 May. 2012 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>. W. R. F. BROWNING. "proselytes." A Dictionary of the Bible. 1997. Encyclopedia.com. (May 27, 2012). http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O94-proselytes.html W. R. F. BROWNING. "proselytes." A Dictionary of the Bible. 1997. Retrieved May 27, 2012 from Encyclopedia.com: http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O94-proselytes.html |
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