Well, this is exactly the kind of thing I was hoping not to see as part of the 'Passion' backlash. I've read (or skimmed) dozens of harsh critiques of the film in the past few days by Catholics, Protestants, Quakers, aetheists and people who are somewhere in between, as well as by Jews. But it doesn't matter. Three Jewish bloggers "mocked" Mel's movie and now this blogger will find it "difficult in the extreme to be a supporter of Jewish causes and of Israel." Ok, Chuck. Sorry you can't de-link me, too, but you never linked me in the first place. I'm really hurt, by the way.
I trust there will be more of this. There's a poster over at LGF calling himself "Austin" who's been making somewhat similar statements. As some people predicted, the film is sparking debate of a frank and honest and sometimes even brutal nature that's usually kept in better check. There will be folks on both sides who'll find it too hard to take. The old adage applies -- if you can't take the heat . . ..
Hey, I'm all for civility and consideration of people's feelings, but when one side takes off the gloves, the other side can be expected to do the same. Hopefully, no one is trying to draw blood, but some are obviously ready to stop pussyfooting around issues that they feel have smoldered for too long. The problem is, some nasty stuff is sure to leak out in the process, and once it's out there, it's out there. So I suspect that this particular "dialogue" might not turn out as well in practice as it sounded in theory.
Wise words from Ocean Guy, over a week ago:
The film is also likely to do much good for a great many, Christians and non-Christians. But we shouldn’t be too comfortable with the good it does if, as has happened, those who criticize the film are going to be accused of attacking Christianity. When zealous people are put on the defensive, and they perceive they are defending their faith, ugly things can happen.
Ain't that the truth. Something to keep in mind as the debate continues.
