선민選民

According the Bible, this term refers to the people specially elected by God to fulfill His providential purpose in history. In the Old Testament, it designates Israel, the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, whom God chose to receive His covenant, law, and blessings so that through them all nations might be blessed (Genesis 12:1-3; Deuteronomy 7:6-8). The concept emphasizes divine election, covenantal responsibility, and mission—Israel was called not merely for privilege but to serve as a witness to God’s truth and righteousness. In Christian theology, the idea is often extended to the spiritual Israel, meaning the community of believers who inherit God’s promises through faith in Christ (Romans 9:6-8; 1 Peter 2:9).