Judeo – Christian Influence

Ancient Hebrew / Jewish Influence EQUALITY All humans are born equal and should be treated equally by the law. “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal” -Declaration of Independence

Ancient Hebrew / Jewish Influence RULE OF LAW No person is above the law…including political leaders like the king, president, or prime minister. US Constitution

Ancient Hebrew / Jewish Influence MAJORITY RULE AND DEMOCRACY The Torah commands to “follow the multitude” After A.D. 70, the Jews lived under the rule of foreign nations. Many countries allowed the Jews to “elect” local town councils. Councils were chosen by the majority of adult males. US Constitution

Ancient Hebrew / Jewish Influence FREEDOM OF RELIGION AND SPEECH Jews must freely follow the Torah. Non-Jews have the freedom to practice their own religion. Free speech existed among the Hebrews. No one was tried for heresy for disputing the meaning of the Torah. The minority had a chance to be heard US Bill of Rights

Ancient Hebrew / Jewish Influence FAIR TRIAL Due Process:  Right of bail (unless death-penalty case)  Prosecutor was either the victim or a relative.  Accused could defend himself or have another plead for him.  Evidence included documents and the testimony of witnesses. US Bill of Rights

Ancient Hebrew / Jewish Influence FAIR TRIAL Due Process:  Illegal to “bear false witness”  No self-incrimination  Judges cross-examined witnesses

Christian Influence Jesus Both a Jew and a Roman subject ◘Preached monotheism and the Ten Commandments ◘Emphasized God’s personal relationship to each human being

Christian Influence Teachings of Christianity –Stressed importance of people’s love for God, neighbors, and their enemies.

Christian Influence Christianity spread across the Roman empire –Apostle Paul stressed the essential equality of all human beings.