Evangelical Leader Critiques Palestinian Official’s Claim About Bible
A prominent evangelical leader in the United States has strongly criticized comments made by a Palestinian diplomat claiming that the Bible is a “Palestinian book.” The remarks were made by Palestinian Ambassador to the U.K., Husam Zomlot, during an event at the University of Bradford.
Zomlot stated that the Bible, which is central to Christianity, belongs to the Palestinian narrative and suggested that all Christians are, in essence, Palestinian. This assertion has sparked a backlash from many who believe it distorts historical facts about the region.
Pastor John Hagee, founder of Christians United for Israel, responded to the claims, stating, “The Palestinians aren’t the ‘people of the Book.’ When the ‘Book’ was written, the term Palestinian had not yet been coined.” He argued that Zomlot’s attempt to link Palestinian identity to Jewish history appears to be a grasp for legitimacy that lacks historical basis.
Hagee compared the idea of Jesus being labeled Palestinian to calling someone Cherokee simply based on their birthplace in Oklahoma, claiming that it misrepresents historical facts. He pointed out that the Romans named the region “Palestine” to erase Jewish identity centuries after Jesus’ time.
Adding to the discussion, Zomlot recalled a past meeting with Queen Elizabeth II, expressing pride in the origins of Christianity from his homeland and emphasizing that the Bible has often been misused against Palestinians. He further noted, “We are the original Christians; all the names you see here, all the saints you hear about came from my land.”
Critics contend that the Palestinian Authority has been actively trying to shape international narratives regarding the land, citing UNESCO’s recent decisions that reflect this initiative.
Ze’ev Orenstein, who oversees international relations for the City of David Foundation, weighed in on the debate, noting that Jesus was a Jewish figure who observed Jewish traditions and belonged to a historical context that must be recognized.
Orenstein stressed that claiming Jesus’ identity is a form of cultural appropriation, calling it a dangerous precedent that could distort the faith, history, and identity of billions worldwide.
As the discussion continues, the broader implications of these claims on religious and historical identities remain a significant concern for many.
