A Jew, in the dictionary, is one who is descended from the ancient tribes of Judea, or one who is regarded as a descendant from that tribe. That's what it says in the dictionary, but you and I know what a Jew is: One Who Killed Our Lord... there should be a statute of limitations for that crime.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Bruce critiques how dictionary definitions mask deep-seated religious prejudice.
- In plain terms
- Definitions hide the real hate people feel toward Jewish people.
- What can you take from it?
- Words can hide prejudice that needs to end.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do words hide bias?
- When should history be forgiven?
Another view
Framing theological disputes as crimes may oversimplify theology.
More from Lenny Bruce
If I get busted in New York, the freest city in the world, that will be the end of my career
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