Supersessionism facts for kids

Supersessionism is a belief that one religion or group of people was chosen by God, but then another religion or group took their place. This happens when people believe the first religion is no longer valid or true.

For example, some Christians believe that Judaism was once the true religion from God. But they think that after Jesus came, Christianity replaced Judaism. They believe the New Testament and faith in Jesus replaced the old Jewish Law.

Similarly, some Muslims believe that God gave the Torah to the Israelites at Mount Sinai. But they believe the Quran later replaced the Torah, making Islam the final and complete religion.

Religion
Abrahamic religions
Christianity · Islam · Judaism · Baha'i
Dharmic religions
Hinduism · Buddhism · Jainism · Sikhism
Other religions
Unitarian Universalism · Raelism · Wicca · Zoroastrianism · Eckankar · Druidry · Yoruba religion · Taoism
Nontheism
Atheism · Agnosticism · Ignosticism
Holy texts
Bible · Qur'an · Torah · Vedas · Aqdas · Avesta · Tripitaka · Adi Granth · Book of Shadows

What is Supersessionism?

Supersessionism is an idea found in some religions. It means that a newer religion or agreement with God has replaced an older one. It suggests that God's promises to an earlier group are now meant for a new group.

Supersessionism in Christianity

In Christianity, supersessionism often means that the Christian Church has replaced the Jewish people. This idea is also called "replacement theology." It suggests that God's promises to the ancient Israelites now apply to Christians.

Some Christians believe that because many Jews did not accept Jesus as the Messiah, God's special relationship with them ended. They believe the New Testament replaced the Old Testament's laws and promises.

Supersessionism in Islam

In Islam, supersessionism means that the Quran replaced earlier holy books like the Torah and the Gospel. Muslims believe that God sent prophets with messages over time. They believe the Quran is the final and most complete message.

This view holds that while earlier scriptures were true, they were either changed over time or were not the full message. The Quran is seen as correcting and completing these earlier messages.

History of the Idea

The idea of supersessionism has been around for a long time. It appeared early in the history of both Christianity and Islam.

Early Christian Views

Some early Christian leaders believed that the Church was the "new Israel." They thought that the Jewish people's special role had ended. This view was common for many centuries.

For example, Paul wrote about how faith in Jesus was more important than following all parts of Jewish law. This helped shape the idea that the old laws were no longer needed.

Modern Views

In recent times, many religious leaders have started to rethink supersessionism. Some Christians, like Pope John Paul II, have worked to improve relations with Jewish people. They have said that God's covenant with the Jewish people is still valid.

These leaders believe that God's promises to the Jewish people were never fully canceled. They promote understanding and respect between different faiths.

Images for kids

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  Paul the Apostle, by Rembrandt Harmensz van Rijn c. 1657

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  Pope Pius XII held supersessionist views.

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  Pope John Paul II repudiated supersessionism.

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  Paul was the first major figure in Christian history to hold that Jewish law is no longer valid.

See also

In Spanish: Teoría del Reemplazo para niños