Background Information
Christianity and Judaism are two of the oldest and most recognizable religious traditions in the world. They share many common values and practices, but have fundamental differences that have created strong distinctions between them over time. The two faiths have a shared historical background and a common language, Hebrew, but their approaches to faith and religious life are quite different. Christianity is a monotheistic religion which believes in the deity of Jesus Christ and is based on the teachings of the Bible. Judaism follows the teachings of the Old Testament books and the Torah and worships the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Common Values
Despite the differences between Christianity and Judaism, there are some core values that the two faiths consider to be fundamental. Both religions have strong codes of ethics and value family, community, and worship of God. Both also emphasize charity, social justice, and good deeds. Each religion also has its own set of customs and rituals to mark special occasions, such as Passover, Christmas, or the Sabbath.
Core Beliefs
The core differences between Christianity and Judaism relate to their beliefs in God and in Jesus. Christianity is a monotheistic religion which believes in the divinity of Jesus Christ and his ability to save humanity from sin and death. Judaism is a monotheistic religion which believes in the one, eternal God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and that there is no savior or mediator between God and humanity, only trust in His mercy.
Sin and Salvation
Christianity teaches that Jesus was sent by God to die for the sins of humanity, and that those who believe in him are saved from sin and death. In Judaism, Salvation comes from living a moral life in accordance with the words of the Torah, and from trusting in God. There is no concept of “original sin” in Judaism, but rather a covenant between God and the Jewish people that provides for forgiveness for wrongs committed.
Worship
Christians typically worship in churches, while Jews typically worship in synagogues. Christians usually celebrate different versions of the Mass, while Jews celebrate Shabbat and festivals such as Sukkot and Passover. Christianity primarily follows the Bible, while Jews follow the Torah and other ancient texts such as the Talmud.
Authority
Christianity relies on the authority of the Bible and the teachings of Jesus as well as the authority of Church leaders. Judaism relies on the authority of the Torah and the teachings of the Prophets, as well as the legal rulings of Rabbis.
Scripture
The Bible is the central text for Christianity, while the Torah is the central text for Judaism. Christians also use other parts of the Bible, such as the New Testament and other writings of the Early Church Fathers. Jews also use the Talmud, along with other ancient texts such as the Mishnah.
Holidays
Christianity celebrates holidays such as Christmas and Easter, which commemorate the life of Jesus and his Resurrection. Judaism celebrates holidays such as Passover, Shavuot, and Sukkot, which commemorate the Exodus from Egypt, the giving of the Torah, and the harvest season. Jewish festivals and fast days also commemorate events in Jewish history and the Jewish people’s relationship with God.
Sacraments
Christian sacraments are rituals that are seen as outward expressions of a believer’s faith, such as baptism and confirmation. Judaism has its own rituals and traditions, such as bar mitzvah and bat mitzvah, which are rites of passage that mark the transition from childhood to adulthood. There is also a special ceremony called the Brit Milah, which is a circumcision ritual for Jewish boys.
Worship Styles
Christian worship styles vary across denominations, but generally involve a combination of singing, prayer, and the reading of Scripture. Jewish worship styles also vary, but typically involve praying, singing, and studying religious texts.
Mission & Evangelism
Christianity has at its core a concept of mission and evangelism. The Bible teaches that Jesus came to save people from sin and reconcile them with God. In Christianity, it is believed that by witnessing and evangelizing, others can also come to know Jesus and be reconciled with God. Judaism does not hold to a mission of evangelism in the same way, but rather is focused on living a life of righteousness and justice, in accordance with God’s commandments.
Social Teaching
Christianity encourages social justice and care for the vulnerable, as well as stewardship of the environment and of resources. Judaism also teaches a kind of social justice, but focuses more on the practice of certain specific laws, such as helping the poor, treating laborers fairly, and protecting the environment.
Forgiveness & Reconciliation
Within Christianity, forgiveness is a fundamental part of faith, and believers are encouraged to forgive others who have wronged them. In Judaism, forgiveness is also a central concept, and the Torah teaches that mercy and compassion are essential elements of faith. Jews are encouraged to forgive and seek reconciliation with those who have wronged them, and to act with kindness and grace towards others.
