The horrific Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on the World Trade Center
and the Pentagon, accompanied by the hijackings and subsequent
crashing of four domestic passenger jets, were universally condemned
by almost all governments, including many that have been traditional
foes of the United States.
Amid all the carnage and the confusion that Americans felt, one
question frequently asked was: "Why do people hate us so
much?" Pictures of people rejoicing in the streets of other
nations stood out in stark contrast to news reports of expressions
of sympathy and support from around the world. Obviously hatred
of the United States has grown intense and deep in some parts of
the world. Quite rightly, people want to know why.
The simplistic answer to that question is that the United States
backs Israel. Mounting frustration with the situation in the Middle
East has increased anger against America. Many in the area feel
that if the United States puts pressure on Israel it would make
concessions to the Palestinians.
Israel's existence is certainly one contributing factor.
Another is the presence of American and British troops on Muslim
soil (see "Anger Mounts Following
Gulf War"). But these explanations overlook the
fact that there is much hatred and resentment directed toward
the United States throughout the world, not just in the Middle
East.
No doubt many factors contribute to this increased anti-American
feeling, not the least of which is jealousy over America's
great wealth. But one scripture helps us to understand why the
problem has worsened in recent decades: "Righteousness exalts
a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people" (Proverbs 14:34, NIV).
