Judeo-Christian tradition (also spelled Judaeo-Christian) refers to concepts and values seen as held in common by Christianity and Judaism. In particular, it makes the claim that they worship the same God, and have many sacred texts and ethical standards in common.

For a systematic look at this subject see: Comparing and Contrasting Judaism and Christianity

Arthur A. Cohen, a Jewish theologian and writer, suggests that the term "Judeo-Christian" was invented in American politics and is not an appropriate theological union. The term was used in American politics in an attempt to create a non-denominational religious consensus that does not appear anti-semitic by excluding Judaism. The original uses of the term have faded and now usually refers to a general western religious background and the term is commonly used by historians and academics as a shorthand for the cultural foundation of western society.

The phrase "Judeo-Christian" has been criticized for implying more commonality than actually exists. Judaism and Christianity have both many areas of agreement, as well as sharply defined ethical and religious systems that are in some areas polar opposites. Opponents claim that the concept collapses these important differences, and effects a modern appropriation of Jewish identity to Christian values. Generally neither Jews nor Christians want to have their distinctive traits removed by an oversimplification.

Recently over 50 rabbis from the non-Orthodox branches of Judaism signed a document called Dabru Emet ("Speak the Truth") that has since been used in Jewish education programs across the US. Some Modern Orthodox rabbis have made statements in agreement with this document as well, but have not signed. This is because Orthodox_Judaism is more strict than the other denominations in regards to the Jewish religious prohibition against inter-religion theological dialogue. (In the past such dialogues were forced, and had as their sole motive the conversion of Jews to other faiths.)

While affirming that there are differences between these two religions, the purpose of Dabru Emet is to point out the common ground between these two religions. It is not an official document of any of the Jewish denominations per se, but it is representative of what many religious Jews feel.

References:

• Cohen, Arthur A. The Myth of the Judeo-Christian Tradition. Harper & Row, New York, 1970.
• Hexter, J. H. The Judaeo-Christian Tradition (Second Edition). Yale University Press, 1995.
• Neusner, Jacob. Jews and Christians: The Myth of a Common Tradition. Trinity Press International, Philadelphia, l99l.

External links:

• Dabru Emet
• Relations between Christians and Jews