Comparisons between Mormons and Jews

Wikipedia says there are more than 14 million Jews in the world today.

The LDS statistical report, read in general conference this year, says there are more than 14 million Mormons in the world.

And it is not just the numbers that invite comparisons.

Both have been spoken of (seriously and devotedly by members and mockingly by detractors) as a "chosen people."

Both have periods of polygamy in their history.

Both have produced books of sacred scripture.

Both have spread and scattered throughout the world, yet both have had times of gathering.

Both (we think few would argue) are exceptionally family-oriented.

Both have memberships that are highly and disproportionately accomplished in many fields — science, the arts, business, politics, etc.

Both await the coming of the Messiah, though Jews believe it will be his first coming and Mormons believe it will be his second.

Both believe they are a people of destiny and will factor significantly in the final and closing chapters of this Earth.

While the Mormons embrace a proselytizing faith that is growing rapidly and the number of Jews (who do not proselyte) in the world is leveling off, both see themselves as catalysts or as the "leaven in the loaf" that will spark events and changes that will influence all mankind.

Perhaps all these similarities (and even the differences of degree) can be explained by three things:

1. History and tradition

Both have a history of prominence and of persecution that has strengthened bonds and identity.

The tradition of excellence and family support and solidarity has existed much, much longer with Jews and this to some degree accounts for their much larger number of world renowned professionals, artists and scientists.

2. Truth

Both are founded on truth, and a great body of that truth, the Old Testament, is shared in the conviction of both. Truth about values, priorities and commandments (which we like to think of as "loving council from a wise Father"). Mormons, in addition, believe in two other testaments.

3. Family