Religious Dogmas
Judaism and Christianity share many similarities in relation to religious dogmas. Both faiths offer a supreme deity that has predetermined laws and rules that must be followed by its adherents in order to achieve spiritual health and prosperity. Among these are the emphasis on the Ten Commandments and a strong belief in the life to come. Both also adhere to a strict moral code, expecting their followers to live up to its ethical standards. Furthermore, both place a high importance on charity and self-sacrifice as an integral part of their faith.
Holy Writings
The most important similarity between Judaism and Christianity is the belief in their respective holy writings. Both faith systems acknowledge the importance of the Bible, though its structure and meaning may be interpreted differently. Christians follow the New Testament, the teachings of Jesus Christ which are the cornerstone of their religion. Jewish religious teachings come from the Torah, which contains instructions from God as well as ancient stories.
Worship Practices
Both Judaism and Christianity also share similarities in their worship practices. Regular attendance of religious services is expected in both faiths as well as prayers said usually in the morning and evening.
Judaism also follows a strict dietary restriction, known as kashrut. This law specifically regulates the types of food that are permissible according to Jewish law, including restrictions on which animals may be eaten and the method of their preparation. Christians, while not keeping these dietary restrictions, do often observe spiritual fasting, abstaining from certain foods in recognition of a particular holy day or historical act.
Rituals
In terms of rituals and special observances, both religions have their own unique set of practices. Judaism takes special care to observe the Shabbat, or Sabbath, a day traditionally set aside for weekly rest and reflection. It includes a variety of rituals, such as the lighting of candles, saying blessings over food, and attending synagogue services.
Christians observe their own special days which may differ depending on the particular sect of Christianity. These days may include the observance of Easter and Christmas, as well as religious rites such as infant baptism and confirmation.
Holy Sites
When it comes to holy sites, these two major religions also share some common ground. Jews believe that Israel is the holiest of all lands, encompassing three significant holy sites: the Temple Mount, the Western Wall, and the Cave of the Patriarchs. For Christians, Jerusalem is also important as the site of Jesus’ Passion, Crucifixion, and Resurrection.
Symbols
Symbols also have relevance in both faiths. The primary symbol of Judaism is the star of David, a six-pointed star that represents the divine connection of God. For Christians, the cross is the most recognizable symbol, acknowledging the importance of Jesus’ death and Resurrection.
Messiah Expectations
Perhaps the biggest difference between Judaism and Christianity is the expectation of the Messiah. Jews await the coming of the Messiah, the long-awaited Savior who will bring about a new era of global peace and unity for the Jewish people. Christians believe that this prophecy has been fulfilled in Jesus Christ and his death and Resurrection.
Conclusion
Though there are some integral differences between Judaism and Christianity, it is clear that the two major religions have more in common than sets them apart. Both religious systems express strong faith in one supreme being and follow various sets of rules and rituals in order to honor that belief. Both emphasize ethics and morals, strict worship attendance, and acknowledge their respective holy writings. Common symbols embody their historic and spiritual significance, and both acknowledge their place in the holy sites of Israel. Whatever disagreements the two may have over the Messianic prophecies, it cannot be denied that both Judaism and Christianity share many similarities.
