A Jewish scholar chosen to lead the Catholic Biblical Association is hit by antisemitic backlash

Amy-Jill Levine, a Jewish scholar, has been chosen as the first Jewish president of the Catholic Biblical Association of America. This decision has sparked an antisemitic backlash, with critics labeling her "anti-Christian" and claiming she seeks to undermine Catholicism. The backlash comes amid rising antisemitism in the United States.

Levine's supporters, however, hail her scholarship and role in fostering Catholic-Jewish dialogue. Levine has worked to improve understanding between Christians and Jews, having worked with Christian scholars for decades. Despite her Jewish faith, she admires Jesus as an early rabbinic teacher and believes both Christians and Jews can learn from each other.

Levine's election, according to supporters, underscores the need to address antisemitism and promote interfaith understanding. Numerous past presidents of the association have expressed their support for Levine's appointment.