Download JUDAISM

JUDAISM
Origins/Practices/Beliefs
ORIGINS OF JUDAISM…
►Oldest of the 3 religions from this region. Abraham is often considered
the founder of Judaism and the physical and spiritual ancestor of all
Jewish people. While most people of his time were polytheistic, Abraham
believed in 1 God & in this way is seen as one of the earliest
“monotheists.”
►In 1800 BC Hebrews (another term for Jewish people) are driven from
Canaan (Palestine) to Egypt where they become slaves
►Many years later Moses leads them out of Egypt & the Hebrews make a
covenant (sacred – binding agreement) that they will accept one God as
ruler of Heaven & earth & in return, they will be His chosen people. This
is significant because it is the basis of Judaism’s claim to “the Holy Land”
land up to the present time.
►Hebrews eventually settle back in Canaan (Palestine) & set up the
ancient kingdom of Israel.
ORIGINS continued…
►Under Kings David & Solomon, ancient Israel thrives with Jerusalem
as its great capital, even including a temple with gold covered walls.
►Because of its accessible location ancient Israel is frequently taken
over by invaders & ultimately in AD 70 the Hebrews (now called Jews)
lose a brutal war to Rome & are scattered from their homeland The
one remaining wall from this ancient temple is now called the
“wailing wall” & is a significant place in Jerusalem for Jewish prayer
& worship.
BELIEFS OF JUDAISM…
►Monotheistic (one God = Yahweh)
►Sacred book = Torah
►Ten Commandments – religious, ethical or moral laws that are
guides for conduct.
►Ethical World View – required Hebrews to treat slaves kindly; lead
moral lives; individuals are responsible for their actions & must
choose between good & evil.
►Prophets warned of God’s anger & punishment for those who
strayed from their duties
PRACTICES OF JUDAISM…
►Sabbath
►Synagogue
►Keeping Kosher
►Following commandments
►??
►SECTS OF JUDAISM: Orthodox, Reform, Conservative. Sect - a group
of people with somewhat different religious beliefs from those of a
larger group to which they belong.