Judaism Key Practices and Beliefs

Study Notes

Core Beliefs of Judaism

Monotheistic faith centered on the belief in one God (YHWH) and adherence to religious laws and ethical principles.
The Shema is a central prayer affirming God's oneness: "Hear, O Israel: the Lord is our God, the Lord is One" (Deuteronomy 6:4).
Strict prohibition against idolatry, emphasizing the exclusivity of worship towards the one true God.

Observance of the Torah

Jewish law (Halakha) encompasses 613 commandments (Mitzvot) from the Torah, guiding ethical duties and ritual obligations.
Ethical living is paramount, promoting justice, charity (Tzedakah), and compassion.

Sabbath (Shabbat)

Celebrated from Friday evening to Saturday evening, the Sabbath is a day of rest commemorating God's creation.
Involves refraining from work, participating in prayers, and family gatherings, reinforcing communal bonds.

Prayer and Worship

Jews engage in daily prayers three times, expressing gratitude and seeking divine guidance.
Synagogue services are vital for communal worship, particularly on the Sabbath and during festivals, including Torah readings.

Festivals and Holy Days

Rosh Hashanah marks the Jewish New Year, emphasizing reflection and renewal under God's sovereignty.
Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is dedicated to repentance, forgiveness, and reconciliation with God.
Passover (Pesach) honors God’s liberation of the Israelites from Egyptian slavery, encapsulating themes of freedom and divine protection.

Kosher Dietary Laws

Adherence to kashrut dictates dietary practices, including the consumption of kosher animals and the separation of meat and dairy.
Compliance with these laws reflects obedience to divine commandments and Jewish identity.

Circumcision (Brit Milah)

Jewish boys undergo circumcision on the eighth day post-birth, symbolizing their entry into the covenant with God established with Abraham.

Study of Torah and Talmud

Engaging with the Torah and Talmud is viewed as a religious duty, facilitating a deeper understanding of God’s will and teachings.

Charity and Acts of Kindness

Performing Tzedakah (charity) and showing Chesed (loving-kindness) are essential for fulfilling ethical responsibilities as part of the Jewish faith.
These acts reflect God's justice and mercy, fostering community welfare.

Monotheistic Mission

Jewish belief in one God is considered a universal truth, extending beyond Jewish identity.
The Noahide Laws provide a framework of moral laws for all humanity, promoting ethical monotheism on a global scale.

Description

Explore the fundamental principles of Judaism, focusing on its monotheistic belief in one God, YHWH. This quiz covers essential practices, such as the Shema prayer, and how they reflect Jewish faith and ethics derived from sacred texts.