In reaction to the Pope’s latest book released on Wednesday that reiterates his oft-repeated statement that Jews could not be held responsible for Jesus’ death, the Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu sent a letter to the Pontiff thanking him for making this opinion so clear.
"I commend you for forcefully rejecting, in your recent book, a false charge that has been a foundation for the hatred of the Jewish People for many centuries," Netanyahu wrote.
The leader of Israel also offered to meet in person with the Pope.
"My fervent hope is that your clarity and courage will strengthen the relations between Jews and Christians throughout the world and help promote peace and reconciliation for generations to come."
"I look forward to seeing you again soon and to expressing my deep appreciation for you in person.""
The Pope’s book, which is entitled ‘Jesus of Nazareth: Holy Week - From the Entrance Into Jerusalem to the Resurrection,’ looks at the final week of Jesus’ earthly life. The Pontiff also denies in some detail the claim that Jews working in the Temple collaborated with the Roman authorities, leading to Jesus' execution.
"Many readers will find this section of the book particularly interesting as the Pope reviews the historical positions taken about this," stated Father Joseph Fessio, founder and publisher of Ignatius Press, the primary publisher of the Pope's books in the US. "He discusses some very controversial claims that have been made, and draws on some contemporary scholarly resources to reach a conclusion that I am certain will generate a lot of discussion."