A Hebraic Inkling: Introduction

A Hebraic Inkling with a long Introduction. The Introduction can be broken into three parts, (1) Brazier's first assertions supported by evidence that Lewis is not antisemitic, but was (positively) Hebaic. (2) A series of definitions of relevant terms. (3) A short synopsis of each chapter. In this post will concentrate on the first two. 

Already in the first part of the Introduction Brazier demonstrates his fearlessness in criticizing anyone he may disagree with, including current cultural attitudes and opinions and even Lewis himself. He quickly identifies the antisemitic character at the beginning of The Great Divorce with the British Labour Party of 2020. He later points out that Lewis did not properly understand God's choice of the Jewish Nation. Brazier correctly chimes in that the Jews were not chosen but were formed by God through the selection of Abraham. 

Some other issues of note that Brazier addresses in the Introduction are the thread of humor found in the Hebrew Bible and the important influence it had on Lewis (something I would like to see expanded a bit). He notes Lewis disagreed with many of his colleagues as to the centrality of Judaism and Jews for Christianity. 

In the second part of the Introduction, Brazier looks at some definitions including elections, defining the importance of names, revelation, and identity politics. Election is especially important for Brazier's thesis as a Hebraic must certainly believe that the Jews were elected by God to guide humanity in its fallen state. However, as asserted by Paul, Gentiles maybe enfolded into the election of the Jews. In the same way, Brazier is quick to differentiate between modern day identity politics and the selection of the Jews by God. The former, says Brazier, is rooted in pride and vanity and is used to achieve special treatment. The latter is a position by God which comes with duty towards others. There is only one race of humanity, says Brazier, and all we can claim in front of God is that we are merely human.

In the final part of the Introduction, Brazier summarizes what he will try to accomplish in each subsequent chapter. We'll skip this for now and address each chapter as it comes.