[Elena Sarigeorgiou]

The similarities between Christian and Jewish theology didn’t come as a complete surprise, considering the historical and scriptural connections between the two religions. The shared belief in monotheism, the significance of sacred texts, and the recognition of figures like Moses and Abraham as foundational figures were expected. However, what did intrigue me was the nuanced understanding of the concept of the Messiah. While both religions anticipate the Messiah’s coming, the Jewish tradition envisions a human figure, a savior, and a redeemer, whereas Christianity perceives the Messiah as Jesus Christ, the Son of God and a divine figure. This fundamental difference highlights the divergence in the understanding of salvation and spiritual redemption. In Jewish theology, the focus primarily revolves around the teachings and laws found in the Torah (Old Testament), emphasizing the covenant between God and the Jewish people. On the other hand, Christian theology places a significant emphasis on the New Testament, which introduces the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ as the central event for salvation. The contrasting perspectives on the role of Jesus as the Messiah, from not being recognized in Jewish theology to being the central figure in Christianity, are intriguing. These differences in emphasis and interpretation shape the core beliefs and practices of each faith, showcasing the rich diversity within the Abrahamic traditions.