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Have you ever stumbled upon the terms BCE and CE while reading about history and wondered about their meaning? Perhaps you've even heard someone argue that they're a politically correct attempt to erase Jesus from history! The truth, as with many things, is a bit more nuanced. Let's dive into the real history behind BCE and CE and clear up some common misconceptions.
BC and AD: A Quick Refresher
Before we unravel BCE and CE, let's quickly revisit the more familiar BC and AD. BC stands for 'Before Christ,' marking the years before the traditional year of Jesus's birth. AD stands for Anno Domini, Latin for 'in the year of the Lord,' counting the years from the traditional year of Jesus's birth onward.
The Issue with BC and AD for Some
While widely used, the terms BC and AD present a challenge for some, particularly those who aren't Christian. The very foundation of these terms is inherently theological:
- Christ: The term 'Christ' isn't Jesus's last name. It's the Greek translation of the Hebrew word 'Messiah,' a term with deep religious significance.
- The Lord: For many faiths, including Judaism, 'the Lord' refers solely to God. Using it to refer to Jesus can be theologically incompatible.
BCE and CE: A More Inclusive Approach
This is where BCE and CE come in. Contrary to some claims, they weren't created by atheists seeking to erase history. The adoption of these terms was actually spearheaded by the Jewish community nearly 200 years ago!
- BCE: Stands for 'Before the Common Era.'
- CE: Stands for 'Common Era.'
These terms maintain the same chronological framework as BC and AD but shift away from explicitly Christian terminology. The 'Common Era' acknowledges that this dating system, while based on a significant event in Christian history, is now used globally by people of diverse backgrounds and beliefs.
Why the Shift?
The shift towards BCE and CE isn't about denying the significance of Jesus in history. It's about inclusivity and neutrality. Imagine a classroom where students from various faiths and those with no religious affiliation are learning about history. Using BCE and CE allows everyone to engage with the material on a level playing field, regardless of their personal beliefs.
Beyond Religious Correctness
While the adoption of BCE and CE was initially driven by a desire for religious correctness within the Jewish community, the appeal of these terms extends far beyond that. Many academics and institutions have embraced BCE and CE as the standard, recognizing their neutrality in a diverse world.
A Matter of Choice
Ultimately, the choice to use BC/AD or BCE/CE is a personal one. There's no right or wrong answer, and neither choice diminishes the historical significance of the dating system's origins. The important thing is to understand the reasoning behind both options and to engage in respectful dialogue when discussing them.
A Final Thought
The next time you encounter BCE and CE, remember that they represent more than just a different way of marking time. They reflect a broader movement towards inclusivity and understanding in how we discuss and learn about history.
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