Covenant and continuity: ethno‐symbolism and the myth of divine election

Abstract

AbstractThroughout history the myth of divine election – a community's collective belief in its nomination by the deity for a special destiny – has provided a supremely potent catalyst for social solidarity and political mobilization. Yet this sublime stimulator of ethnogenesis, comprehensive demarcator of ethnic identity, and durable guarantor of ethno‐cultural preservation has been largely neglected by many of the most prominent scholars of nationalism who have often discounted the relevance of the myth of divine election with regard to modern nationalist movements. However, Anthony D. Smith has afforded considerable attention to the concept of chosenness and its significance for the nationalist project. This article will assess Smith's contribution to the subject and will examine how his ethno‐symbolic approach has illuminated the ways in which ethnic groups have been infused by the myth of divine election. And, utilizing the ethno‐symbolic perspective, this article will explore how this ineffable and persistent sense of providential destiny continues to influence modern communities and hence international politics.

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