Jesus and the Disinherited

Thurman interchangeably refers to “the disinherited,” “the weak,” and “the underprivileged.” These are groups of humans sharing racial, social, or national identities who are oppressed by more powerful groups, often living in close proximity.

Faith is the recurring belief in God’s love and forgiveness, which also inspires faith in one’s personal and political goals.

According to Thurman, fear as the defining psychological state of the disinherited, reinforced by violence and threats of violence by the powerful.

Fellowship is the natural bonding between humans who share aspects of their identities or who come in contact with each other under equal and favorable terms. Fellowship does not come naturally between the strong and the weak and must be worked toward.

Like deception, hate is a reasonable reaction on the part of oppressed people in the face of inestimable injustice. It also drives the racist attitudes of the strong. Hate appears at first as a creative force, but it quickly gets out of control and destroys everything in its path.

To Thurman, love is rooted in the recognition of mutual humanity and sacredness. It doesn’t mean liking or condoning any specific acts; rather, it is an earthly manifestation of faith and grace.