Overview Of Judaism
Judaism is an ancient religion of the Jewish people with a long and complex history that stretches across the globe and more than three millennia. Originally a form of polytheistic worship, over time the belief in a single divinity, a transcendent God became foundational to the majority of adherents. Its founder and most influential leader, Moses, is renowned for leading the Israelites out of Egypt around 1300 BCE and receiving Ten Commandments, which form the core of Jewish law. Although the Torah is the primary religious text of Judaism, later writers have interpreted and expanded on it, giving rise to rabbinic law, traditional observances, as well as a wide range of theological movements, now known as denominations.
The Primary Beliefs Of Judaism
The primary beliefs of Judaism centre around monotheism, the concept of one and only one God. God is believed to be the creator of the universe, who is perfect, eternal and unchanging. He is omniscient, omnipotent and omnipresent. God and humanity, humans and the world, are in constant relationship to one another, with God providing protection and guidance, and mankind fulfilling the divine mission to serve God and act as stewards of the earth. For Jews, the study and practice of the Torah is essential in cultivating proper relationship with God and is to be carried out with joy and enthusiasm.
The Torah is the source of commandments which structure Jewish life and their core faith. Apart from its doctrinal components, these mitzvot, or commands, are a body of ethical and legal rulings. They include the Ten Commandments, a hybrid of legal and ethical rules, and are found in the Jewish biblical book of Exodus.
The Covenant is the other fundamental tenet of Judaism. It is believed that God established a special covenant with the descendants of Abraham, which is evident in the various laws and customs outlined in the Torah. Jews hold that they are bound by this covenant and uniquely chosen to spread the word of their God and serve as His messengers in the world.
The core teachings of Judaism offer a unified understanding of life. They emphasize justice and mercy, stressing the significance of performing good deeds and upholding the dignity of all human beings. Respect for others and for God is held to be an ethical duty for all Jews, regardless of their religious practice, and is seen as an entrée to a relationship with the Almighty.
The Messianic Age
The Jews believe that one day a Messiah will come to bring peace and justice to the world. This Messianic Age will be marked by a time of universal harmony and understanding, when Jews will live at peace with their neighbours and all people will aspire to serve God with one heart and soul. Although the Jews have long awaited the arrival of the Messiah, some have suggested that he may already have come in the form of Jesus or other prophets.
The essence of the faith is summed up in the Sh’ma prayer, which is recited every morning and night. It is a declaration of faith in one God and recognition of the mitzvot as part of living a God-centred life. The words “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your strength” capture the notion that God is to be loved above all else.
In addition to the Sh’ma, Jews regularly recite traditional blessings, prayers of thanksgiving and petition as part of their spiritual practice. Each morning and night, observant Jews observe prayers known as s’lichot. Each aspect of life is marked with a special prayer, including birthdays, weddings and funerals.
Jewish Mysticism
Judaism is also connected to the mystical tradition known as Kaballah. While rooted in specific schools of Jewish thought, this tradition has been adopted by people of all religions around the world. It centres around the notion of a hidden connection between the physical and spiritual planes of existence. Through the study and contemplation of ancient texts such as the Zohar, the Kaballah attempts to provide insight into the hidden mysteries of the universe and of God.
The primary goal of the Kaballah is to help people access their own spiritual power, which is thought to enable them to navigate the complexities of life and explore the profound questions that drive humanity. Through meditation and contemplation, it is believed that practitioners can unlock a deeper understanding of the One God, of the world and of themselves.
Socio-Political Attitudes
The socio-political attitude of today’s Jews is guided by a philosophy known as tikkun olam. This term literally means ‘repairing the world’ and brings together the notion of human responsibility and a commitment to social justice. This attitude has inspired Jews to advocate for civil rights, provide aid to those affected by poverty, and actively campaign against oppression and societal injustices.
The concept of tikkun olam expresses the necessity of taking action in order to build greater equality and equity between people and communities, and to ensure the protection of the environment. In implementing this attitude, Jews strive to serve as role models for others, promoting ethical behaviour and compassion towards others no matter their religious, national or cultural background.
Attitude Towards Life
The principles and teachings of Judaism provide insight into the attitude that Jews have towards life. For all Jews, life is to be held as a precious gift, with every moment a chance to deepen one’s relationship with God. Life is also seen as a balance between striving for spiritual growth and engaging with the world, and living one’s life to its fullest potential.
The Jewish people are also defined by a deep respect for their deceased ancestors and their traditions, as well as a veneration for the land of Israel. Through study and observance, Jews strive to learn and deepen their understanding of their faith, cherishing what they have and working towards fulfilling their spiritual purpose both in the present and in the future.
Superstitions & Rituals
Many Jews observe additional customs in order to uphold their religious and cultural identity. Certain superstitions and rituals are practiced in order to bring luck, ward off misfortune and to thank God for the many blessings that He has bestowed upon them. For instance, it is customary for Jews to light a special menorah at the beginning of the Hanukkah festival each year.
Holidays are another major way for Jews to express their faith and connect with their tradition. From Passover to Sukkot, these festivals bring together Jews of all backgrounds and enable them to strengthen their bonds with one another. Common observances include prayer, consumption of traditional foods, and recitation of sacred texts.
Conclusion
The primary beliefs of Judaism are centred around monotheism, a belief in one divine being, and the teachings of the Torah, which form an essential part of the faith. Jews also look forward to the coming of a Messiah, a figure who will usher in an era of peace, justice and unity. In parallel to this, other facets of the faith include mysticism, tikkun olam, respect for life, superstitions and rituals.
