The Chosen People: A Misunderstood Calling
- Reuben Berger
- Nov 25
- 2 min read
Few ideas in Judaism have caused as much tension, misunderstanding, and resentment as the phrase “the Chosen People.” To many looking in from the outside, it can sound like arrogance — as though the Jewish people believe themselves to be superior, elevated, or somehow more valuable than the rest of humanity. But this interpretation fundamentally misses the point.
Being “chosen” in the Torah does not mean chosen for privilege — it means chosen for responsibility.
A good analogy is a wilderness canoe trip.
On a canoe trip certain people must be chosen to be the guides. Not because they are superior. Not because they are more important. But because without them, the trip can fall into danger: getting lost, running rapids without preparation, setting up camp poorly, failing to keep the group safe and inspired.
The guides have a different role, not a higher worth.
They must:
know the map
understand weather patterns
teach skills
set the tone
model courage and kindness
protect the vulnerable
make sure every paddler returns home safely
Their responsibility is immense — and their privilege is small.
Their job is service.
This is the essence of the calling.
A Nation Chosen Not for Status, but for Service
When God says in Exodus 19:6:
“You shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation”
it means:
priests → those who serve others
holy → set apart for a purpose, not elevated in worth
nation → a collective mission, not an individual boast
A priest does not sit on a throne.
A priest kneels to help.
A priest’s honour comes from compassion, not self-importance.
The Jewish people were “chosen” to model:
ethical living
Sabbath rest
justice
kindness
care for the poor and stranger (Lev. 25:35)
the presence of God in daily life
In other words:
chosen to guide, not chosen to dominate.
Why the Misunderstanding?
Because when this role is not lived, or becomes distorted through ritual, ego, or fear, others see not humility but separation.
And separation looks like superiority.
And when Jews forget their purpose, the world forgets the meaning of the calling.
Returning to the True Calling
The Jewish People's chosenness is:
to model the way home.
to be the “lead canoe.”
to show what a life aligned with God looks like.
to protect those who are struggling.
to uplift humanity by embodying holiness, justice, and rest.
No Superiority — Only Service
If this truth were widely understood:
The animosity would soften.
The resentment would dissolve.
And the true beauty of the Jewish calling would shine again.
It has nothing to do with being “better.”
It has everything to do with being responsible.
The world needs guides.
The world needs light.
The world needs people living the Torah with humility, compassion, rest, and courage.
That is the real meaning of “chosen.”
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