Gentile

A Gentile refers to a non-Israelite; the word is derived from the Latin term gens (meaning "clan" or a "group of families") and is often employed in the plural. Christian translators of the Bible use this word to collectively designate the peoples and nations distinct from the Israelite people. Jewish people use this term to refer to non-Jews, but this word does not appear in English translations of the Hebrew Bible. Jews also use the word "goy" to mean the same thing, but it is sometimes considered derrogatory. The term is sometimes used as a synonym for heathen or pagan. Also, members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who regard themselves as regathered formerly-lost Israelites, have traditionally used the term "Gentile" for those who are not members of their church, This word is not appropriately applied to Jews, although some people colloquially call Jews "Gentiles" simply for not being part of the Church. In younger (modern) generations of religious LDS, the word "Gentile" is antiquated, and the more neutral term "non-Mormon" is now more frequently used to refer to those who are not members of their church. See also Mormonism and Judaism. Hebrew Christianity also believes that most people who adapt its beliefs are "Ephraimites", descendants of the "Lost Tribes of Israel." In Basque mythology, jentilak are giants who lived before Christianization and built dolmens and menhirs. (Jentilarriak, i.e., "Gentile stones").\nOlentzero is the only one still alive. The word goy is used in the old testament regarding Jacob and Esau. There are "shnei (two) goyim" in Rebecca's womb, or "two nations". Jacob, of course, is the father of the Israelites. Esau's descendants become a number of other nations, including Edom and other ancient enemies of the Israelites. The word ethnos refers to a group of people, nation or tribe. It can in some instances refer to the Heathen. The word 'Gentile' should be used in context to understand the proper meaning in scripture.\n Category:Judaism\nCategory:Mormonism