The Definition of Neighbor

59. The Definition of Neighbor

Jewish law says to love your neighbor as yourself. But in Jesus’ day, the definition of neighbor was a fellow Jew. If you were, say, a Samaritan, who as we know did not get along with the Jews, then the law did not apply.

Tribalism in Jesus’ day was rife. Like a high school campus, identity was built around what group you belonged to. Those inside your group were friends and neighbors, those outside were inconsequential at best, enemies at worst.

Once again, Jesus lifts the teaching to a higher level. The definition of neighbor transcends tribal boundaries. It is anyone who manifests God’s mercy.