Antisemitism in the Muslim World: An Analytical Review of Middle Eastern Dimensions of Antisemitism and Political Impact on the West

Purpose: This study aimed to increase the understanding of antisemitism in the Muslim world by conducting an analytical review of Middle Eastern dimensions of antisemitism and its political impact on the West. Methodology: The analytical review applied a literature review approach, including primary documents (the Koran and Hadiths), books, and peer-reviewed literature. Data was extracted from the sources and subjected to content analysis, which generated relevant sections that depict antisemitism from different perspectives. Findings: Findings from the review revealed antisemitism is becoming politically controversial due to different authors’ varied interpretations of what it constitutes. Fundamentally, antisemitism is depicted as a type of prejudice emerging from the history Muslim hatred to the Jews. Hadith were also found to influence antisemitism especially when they pronounce negative words about Jews. The study further revealed that antisemitism manifests itself in the world today through racial antisemitism and religious antisemitism. The historical Jewish persecution and genocides or pogroms in the Muslim world indicate deep-rooted antisemitism. The dangers associated with antisemitism have motivated many nations to respond to antisemitism through policies and actions intended to create a discrimination-free world. The lack of evidence of success is disputed based on the observation that while negative stereotypes and hostility persist in some areas, there are also significant efforts towards reconciliation and mutual respect. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study contributes to the understanding of the foundations of the persistent antisemitism in the Muslim world. Moreover, the study suggests that scholars may consider intensifying research in comparison with other forms of hatred or racism to develop new concepts, paradigms, and practices under which antisemitism may be studied.