The Holy Bible highlights key figures, notably Abraham and Moses, who are central to the religious narratives of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Abraham, traditionally dated to around 2000 B.C., is revered as the patriarch of the Israelites. His covenant with God is seen as the origin of the Jewish people, profoundly influencing the spiritual and cultural history of the Middle East.
Moses, another pivotal figure traditionally dated to the 13th century B.C., played a transformative role in Israelite history. Known for leading the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt during the Exodus, Moses is also credited with receiving the Torah, including the Ten Commandments, on Mount Sinai. This role as a lawgiver is fundamental to Jewish religious identity and observance.
Judaism, one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions, has developed into three primary branches: Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform. Each branch reflects distinct interpretations of Jewish law (Halakha) and tradition. Orthodox Judaism strictly adheres to traditional practices and beliefs, closely following ancient teachings. Conservative Judaism seeks to balance tradition with modern values, selectively adapting practices while maintaining essential elements of Jewish law. Reform Judaism, on the other hand, prioritizes individual autonomy, allowing for a flexible approach to religious practices to align with contemporary life. This diversity within Judaism highlights the religion’s adaptability and resilience across various cultural and historical contexts.
Key sources of Jewish tradition and belief include the Tanakh (Hebrew Bible), especially the Torah, which is foundational. The Talmud offers in-depth interpretations of the Tanakh, while teachings from renowned sages, such as Maimonides, further shape each branch’s approach to Jewish law and philosophy.
Beliefs about God vary across Jewish communities. Orthodox Jews view God as personal, eternal, all-powerful, and compassionate, while more liberal branches often perceive God as less personal or unknowable, allowing for various interpretations. Unlike Christianity, which includes the concept of the Trinity, Judaism maintains a strictly monotheistic belief in a singular, indivisible God.
In Jewish tradition, Jesus is generally not considered the Messiah, Son of God, or a divine figure. Orthodox Jews believe a future Messiah will come to restore the Jewish kingdom and bring global peace, contrasting with Christian beliefs that regard Jesus as the Savior and Son of God. For many Jews, Jesus is either viewed as a false messiah or simply a Jewish teacher who was martyred, with some not focusing on him at all.
Regarding salvation, Jewish perspectives emphasize prayer, repentance, and adherence to the Law. Some Jews also see societal improvement as a part of spiritual fulfillment. Beliefs about the afterlife are diverse; while some anticipate a physical resurrection where the righteous live eternally with God, others do not focus on conscious life after death.
Jewish observances include gathering in synagogues on the Sabbath (from Friday evening to Saturday evening), circumcision for male children, and celebrating holy days and festivals such as Passover, Sukkoth, Hanukkah, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Purim.
Jerusalem is held as a sacred city in Judaism, symbolizing the historical and spiritual heart of the faith, particularly as the site of the ancient Temple, of which the Western Wall remains a focal point for Jewish worship and prayer.
Jerusalem is considered a sacred city within Jewish tradition.
