Bible Question: Why did the Jews stop having anything to do with the Samaritans? |
Bible Answer: The Talmud offers the following: "Why are Samaritans excluded from entering Israel? Because they were mixed up with the priests of the high places. Rabbi Ishmael said: 'They were righteous proselytes in the beginning.' Why are they excluded? Because they marry illegitimate women but not a brother's widow. When will they be accepted? When they deny Mount Gerizim and confess Jerusalem and the resurrection of the dead. After this, he who robs a Samaritan is like one who robs an Israelite." If you are interested in more historical information, you can read Josephus. Interesting stuff, but remember it does not have the authority of Scripture. |