Usually referencing the non-israelite nations. At times used by the prophets to provoke, disassociate and or mock the Israelites with a negative byword that have assimilated to heathen customs. According to the
Bible there are two types and classes of
people on earth ; 2Esdras6:54-56
1.) Israelites ; commonly referred to today as Jews.
2.) Gentiles/Heathens ; all non-israelite
people/nations.
The importance of understanding the words cultural context is central to the biblical theme of the Chosen
people that are predestined, and the only
people through whom The LORD made salvation available.
Real Gentiles: 1Esdras8:69 Jeremiah46:1-2 Isaiah60:11-12 Isaiah61:9 Genesis10:5
Israel called Gentiles: Ezekiel20:32 2Maccabees 6:8-9 1Corinthians12:2. Romans9:
24-26 1Peter1:1
• Israelites that assimilate to American customs and traditions are considered gentile.