Some thoughts I had in response to this somewhat negative reflection on John Paul II’s historic visit to the Great Synagogue of Rome
This was a divinely splendid and important moment. I think the Rabbi’s suggestion that the omission of Aaron as a deliberate sleight is a reach.
However, there is something in how he takes “elder brother” relating it to Jacob and Esau. The Jews traditionally see Esau as Rome and Christendom. The Rabbi intuits correctly that even some Christians see themselves as Jacob. I don’t think this was JPII’s intent but I understand wy the Rabbi’s sensitivity in how he’s hearing the Pope’s words.
I think the correct reading may be in making the connection that in the Bible (Maccabees) the brotherhood between Rome as descendants of Esau and Israel is recognized. Thus Jacob was always Jacob and Esau was always Esau. Rome/Esau is more like the prodigal son returned—maybe exactly like that. And the description of Israel as the elder brother is esoteric. In body Esau was the elder brother. But Israel took Esau’s birthright and the spiritual distinction and title of elder brother.
