Judaism

Judaism is one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions, tracing its origins to the covenant between God and Abraham around 4,000 years ago. It is centered on the belief in one God, the Torah (Jewish sacred text), and a way of life guided by religious laws and traditions.

Core Beliefs

  1. Monotheism – Judaism teaches belief in one God who is just, merciful, and involved in the world.
  2. The Covenant – Jews believe they have a special relationship (covenant) with God, which includes following His commandments.
  3. The Torah – The first five books of the Hebrew Bible (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy) contain God’s laws and teachings.
  4. Mitzvot (Commandments) – There are 613 commandments in the Torah that guide Jewish life, covering everything from ethics to religious rituals.
  5. The Messiah – Many Jews believe a Messiah will come to bring peace and justice to the world.

Sacred Texts

  • Tanakh (Hebrew Bible) – Consists of the Torah, the Prophets (Nevi’im), and the Writings (Ketuvim).
  • Talmud – A collection of rabbinic discussions and interpretations of Jewish law and ethics.
  • Midrash – Commentaries and stories that explore deeper meanings in the Torah.

Major Branches

  • Orthodox Judaism – Maintains traditional practices and strict adherence to Jewish law (Halakha).
  • Conservative Judaism – Balances tradition with some modern adaptation.
  • Reform Judaism – Emphasizes individual interpretation and modernization of Jewish practices.
  • Reconstructionist Judaism – Views Judaism as a constantly evolving civilization.

Jewish Practices & Traditions

  • Shabbat (Sabbath) – A day of rest from Friday evening to Saturday evening, dedicated to prayer and family.
  • Kashrut (Kosher Laws) – Dietary laws that prohibit certain foods (e.g., pork, shellfish) and mixing meat with dairy.
  • Prayer – Observant Jews pray three times daily (morning, afternoon, and evening).
  • Holidays
    • Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year)
    • Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement, fasting and repentance)
    • Hanukkah (Festival of Lights)
    • Passover (Commemorating the Exodus from Egypt)
    • Sukkot, Purim, and Shavuot (other significant festivals)

Common Symbols

  • Star of David – A symbol of Jewish identity.
  • Menorah – A seven-branched candelabrum, used in the ancient Temple.
  • Mezuzah – A small parchment with biblical verses placed on doorposts.

Misconceptions

  • Judaism is not just a religion – It is also a cultural and ethnic identity, and some Jews identify as secular.
  • Jews do not believe Jesus was the Messiah – Jesus is not considered divine or the fulfillment of Jewish prophecy.
  • Not all Jews keep kosher or follow all commandments – Practice varies widely based on denomination and personal belief.