The Sordid Past of the Man who Shaped the Modern Evangelical Faith

 Gerhard Kittel remains one of the most controversial figures in 20th-century biblical scholarship, remembered both for his contributions to theological studies and his active role in Nazi antisemitism. Born in 1888 to the renowned Old Testament scholar Rudolf Kittel, he became a respected biblical lexicographer, most famous for his Theological Dictionary of the New Testament—a reference still used in theological circles today. However, his legacy is deeply tainted by his ideological alignment with the Nazi Party and his role in advancing antisemitic policies through academic discourse. 

This podcast explores Kittel’s dual identity as both a scholar and a propagandist, delving into his early academic achievements, his alignment with Nazi ideology, and the moral dilemmas posed by his work. In 1933, Kittel joined the Nazi Party, framing it as a moral renewal movement, and went on to actively support antisemitic policies. His infamous lecture, Die Judenfrage (The Jewish Question), proposed policies that would later be enacted under Nazi rule, including stripping German Jews of citizenship and barring them from professional fields. 

Despite his post-war defense that his scholarship was purely “scientific” and “Christian”, many scholars—including William F. Albright—hold him accountable for providing intellectual justification for Nazi racial policies. His story raises critical questions: How can academia be weaponized for political ideology? How should modern scholars engage with the work of those complicit in oppression? 

 Join us as we unpack the life, work, and legacy of Gerhard Kittel, examining how one of the most influential biblical scholars of his time became a key figure in the Nazi regime—and what his story teaches us about the responsibility of scholars in shaping ideology and history. 

 🔹 Subscribe now to explore the unsettling intersection of theology, politics, and ethics. 

#GerhardKittel #BiblicalScholarship #NaziIdeology #TheologyAndPolitics #AntisemitismInHistory #AcademicEthics #TheJewishQuestion #NaziGermany #HistoricalAccountability #DarkHistory 

Perspective: Faith, Science, Politics, and Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the forces shaping our world. Hosted by Shane Burkett, this show dives into the intersections of religion, scientific discovery, political shifts, and everyday life, featuring deep conversations with experts, thought leaders, and changemakers. No topic is off-limits—expect bold discussions, critical thinking, and new insights that challenge the way you see the world. Join the c

Perspective: Faith, Science, Politics, and Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the forces shaping our world. Hosted by Shane Burkett, this show dives into the intersections of religion, scientific discovery, political shifts, and everyday life, featuring deep conversations with experts, thought leaders, and changemakers. No topic is off-limits—expect bold discussions, critical thinking, and new insights that challenge the way you see the world. Join the c

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