According to the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary, antisemitism is hatred towards or unfair treatment of Jewish people.  It is a form of prejudice and discrimination directed at individuals or groups due to their Jewish identity. 

Key aspects of antisemitism include: 

• Hatred and prejudice:Anti-Semitism is characterized by negative feelings, beliefs, and stereotypes about Jews. 
• Discrimination: This can range from subtle bias to outright exclusion and violence. 
• Historical and contemporary manifestations: Anti-Semitism has existed in various forms throughout history, from religious prejudice to modern-day hate speech. 
• Potential for violence: In extreme cases, anti-Semitism can lead to pogroms, genocide, or other acts of violence against Jewish people. 

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Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.

The IHRA definition includes numerous examples of how antisemitism can be manifested, including in classic and current forms, such as when criticism of Israel crosses the line from fair critique of policies into antisemitism. Some examples include:

• Denying the Jewish people their right to self-determination, e.g., by claiming that the existence of a State of Israel is a racist endeavor.
• Applying double standards by requiring of it a behavior not expected or demanded of any other democratic nation.
• Using the symbols and images associated with classic antisemitism (e.g., claims of Jews killing Jesus or blood libel) to characterize Israel or Israelis.
• Drawing comparisons of contemporary Israeli policy to that of the Nazis.
• Holding Jews collectively responsible for actions of the state of Israel.

Anti Defamation League. “Definition of Antisemitism.”  Antisemitism Uncovered. https://antisemitism.adl.org/. Accessed on May 18, 2025.

ANTISEMITISM: AN INTRODUCTION

Antisemitism is the prejudice against or hatred of Jewish people. This hatred was at the foundation of the Holocaust. But, antisemitism did not begin or end with the Holocaust. Antisemitism has existed for thousands of years. It has often taken the form of systemic discrimination against and persecution of Jews. Antisemitism has repeatedly led to serious and deadly violence against Jewish people.

KEY FACTS

• Antisemitism is a set of hateful beliefs and ideas with deep historical, social, and cultural roots. Over many centuries, Christianity played a central role in the development and spread of antisemitism in Europe, where Jews have always been a minority. 
• Today, antisemitic ideas and stereotypes are held by people of all different backgrounds and religions, as well as from across the political spectrum.
• Antisemitism often takes the forms of scapegoating and conspiracy theories based on stereotypes and tropes. These theories falsely portray Jewish people as dangerous to society or even the world.
  United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. “Introduction to the Holocaust.” Holocaust Encyclopedia. https://encyclopedia.ushmm.org/content/en/article/introduction-to-the-holocaust. Accessed on May 18, 2025.