Anti-Semitism and ‘Temptation of Christ’ Film

It is irresponsible for any clergyman to espouse hatred and provoke anti-Semitism. Unfortunately, that is precisely what some have done with regard to the film, “The Last Temptation of Christ.”

It is hardly surprising that a film about the life and death of Jesus should offend some people. Fictionalized accounts of such sensitive subjects, even when done with great artistic integrity, will inevitably upset some viewers.

Given our First Amendment freedoms, those who feel offended have every right to express their anger. But we must not forget that these same constitutional freedoms also give the producers the unfettered right to issue this film and to audiences to view it.

However, the exercise of constitutional rights by both sides in this dispute does not create license to engage in bigotry and anti-Semitism. We condemn the Rev. Jerry Falwell’s outrageous statement that this film, if released, would “create a wave of anti-Semitism in this country” because many Christians would regard this movie as an insult to their faith and would blame Universal Studios’ “Jewish leaders” for it.

The Rev. Falwell, the Rev. R.L. Hymers, and other fundamentalist ministers who have engaged in this demagoguery, know very well that Universal Studios is a publicly held corporation and that the film is based on a novel written by a Christian, Nikos Kazantzakis, and directed by a Christian, Martin Scorsese.

Archbishop Roger M. Mahony and other responsible Christian clergymen are to be commended for their repudiation of those who have raised anti-Semitic implications. People of good will, regardless of their religion, should judge this film on its merits and not respond to statements of hate.

ROBERT J. GERST

President

American Jewish Congress

Pacific Southwest Region

Los Angeles