Why do I keep hearing people describe others as "Jews" especially in a dismissive tone?

What exactly does it mean to be a "Jew"? Isn't that a bit like calling someone an African or a European?

And is everyone from Israel really a "Jew" or are they Israeli?

I'm open to input here but I get a sneaking suspicion that calling people "Jews" is a bit too convenient for everyone besides "Jews".

This page is a permanent link to the reply below and its nested replies. See all post replies »

CrazyMusicLover · 31-35

I had exactly the same question when I was a kid/teen. I had no idea how can anybody look at someone and say "ah, she/he is a Jew" like my grandma often did. They look like regular white people to me and how is that relevant if they are Jews or not?

samueltyler2 · 80-89, M

@CrazyMusicLover so many have stereotypes and subtle antisemitism. U fortunately, many classic books, etc., foster this.

CrazyMusicLover · 31-35

@samueltyler2 But it had to be some relic from the past because for my generation it was completely irrelevant. Not a thing at all. Jewish was just some distant religion. What my generation is sensitive to are prejudices based on appearance saying "he is gay/she is lesbian". Sensitive in the sense that we were taught to pay attention to it and question someone's sexuality based on appearance, body language or how they talk. But in relation to Jews, no such thing.

samueltyler2 · 80-89, M

@CrazyMusicLover perhaps it was more subtle. Have you read Oliver Twist?

CrazyMusicLover · 31-35

@samueltyler2 I haven't.

samueltyler2 · 80-89, M

@CrazyMusicLover as classic story, and loaded with stereotypes.