How is ethnocentrism defined?

Definition and Etymology

Ethnocentrism can be described as the tendency to view one’s own ethnic or cultural group as the central point of reference, often coupled with an unconscious or conscious sense of superiority over other groups. The term combines “ethno,” referring to people or nations, with “centrism,” denoting a center or focal point. Although the concept is widely discussed in contemporary social sciences, its underpinnings can be observed in ancient texts, historical records, and even biblical narratives.

Ethnocentrism in Historical and Cultural Context

From earliest recorded history, cultures have exhibited pride in their traditions, language, and social structures. Archaeological and historical studies—including numerous ancient Near Eastern inscriptions and records from early civilizations—show that many groups praised themselves as uniquely favored by their deities, championed their cultural practices, and sometimes disparaged outsiders. Such attitudes established boundaries of inclusion and exclusion that fueled prejudice and conflict.

Biblically speaking, various nations of the ancient Near East (e.g., Egypt, Moab, Edom) held their own customs and gods to be superior, leading to tensions with others. Subsequent empires, like those of Assyria and Babylon, viewed the assimilation or domination of subjugated peoples as affirmation of their own sociopolitical or divine supremacy. These historical threads weave a backdrop against which Scripture provides divinely inspired teachings about the unity of humanity under one Creator.

Ethnocentrism in Scripture

Scripture highlights fallen human nature’s tendency to elevate self and look down on others. This inclination can also be seen in the context of ethnicity or nationality:

• Old Testament Examples (Hebrew Scriptures):

– The Israelites themselves, though set apart for a divine purpose, were consistently warned not to disdain foreigners who lived among them. For instance:

“When a foreigner resides with you in your land, you must not oppress him. You shall treat the foreigner living among you as native-born and love him as yourself...” (Leviticus 19:33–34).

– The law repeatedly reminds Israel that they, too, were once strangers in Egypt (Deuteronomy 10:19), teaching empathy and a posture that resists ethnocentric pride.

• New Testament Teachings:

– Jesus Christ ministers to people of multiple ethnic backgrounds (e.g., the Samaritan woman in John 4), contrasting with cultural norms that shunned Samaritans.

– The apostle Paul teaches that the barriers of ethnicity and culture are transcended in Christ: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28).

– Acts 17:26 underscores that God “made from one man every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth”, underscoring the inherent unity of humankind.

Biblical Lessons on Unity and Approval

Scripture provides a higher calling that subverts any notion of ethnic or cultural superiority:

1. God’s Sovereign Creation of All Peoples

Humanity’s single origin (Genesis 1:27, Acts 17:26) points to one Creator whose design extends across ethnicities. Recognizing that all people are made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27) contrasts sharply with ethnocentrism.

2. The Example of Christ

The ministry of Jesus demonstrates compassion and healing extended to those beyond the Jewish community (Matthew 15:21–28; Mark 7:24–30). These accounts illustrate that salvation, and the blessings associated with it, are not restricted by ethnicity.

3. A Call to Love One Another

The New Testament centers on the commandment to love one another, as Jesus said, “By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:35). This principle rebukes any view that distances or demeans fellow human beings based on culture or ethnicity.

4. A Vision of Eternal Unity

The book of Revelation presents a picture of a “great multitude that no one could count, from every nation and tribe and people and tongue, standing before the throne and before the Lamb” (Revelation 7:9). The ultimate gathering of worshipers suggests that cultural and ethnic variety will be united in relationship to God, stripping away any claims of inherent racial or cultural supremacy.

Modern Applications and Considerations

While ethnocentrism often appears today as national, racial, or cultural partiality, biblical perspectives challenge believers and nonbelievers alike to examine biases and stereotypes. Recognizing that all people bear the image of God and that Christ’s salvation extends universally (John 3:16) can foster respect and compassion across cultural lines.

Social science research into group dynamics validates that in-group favoritism can manifest subtly or overtly. However, biblical principles instruct God-honoring behavior toward all, encouraging empathy (Romans 12:15) and humility (Romans 12:3). Within the Church, the pursuit of a multiethnic, reconciled community mirrors the early believers’ demonstration of unity amid cultural diversity (Acts 2; Acts 10).

Conclusion

Ethnocentrism, finding root in an overemphasis on one’s own cultural perspective, runs counter to biblical teachings that elevate all humankind as made in God’s image. Whether in Old Testament commands regarding the treatment of foreigners or New Testament calls to unity in Christ, Scripture consistently upholds the dignity of each people group. The biblical narrative affirms that the gospel extends beyond every boundary and binds believers together in a renewed family of faith, providing a clear challenge to ethnocentric mindsets and offering a path toward love and unity for all.