A Brief History
Judaism is one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions, founded by Abraham more than 3,500 years ago. It is based on the Hebrew Bible and on a long history of tradition and interpretation by rabbis and Jewish scholars. Jewish law, or Halakhah, guides the ways that Jews worship, think, work, and interact with each other and with the world, while producing a shared history and culture. This unique religious culture has been maintained and enriched over centuries, allowing it to develop in a variety of ways.
The Jewish view of God is somewhat distinctive and controversial. Central to Jewish belief is that God is a single, unified entity, rather than consisting of a tripartite divine being. This is known as monotheism, and is manifest in the opening words of the Shema, part of the central prayer: “Hear Israel: YHWH is God, YHWH is one!”
Unlike many other religions, Judaism has no founder and no central authority. The Jewish people are held together by their shared beliefs and practices, rather than by a single individual. Instead, various movements have emerged throughout history, based on specific interpretations of the religion.
Rituals and Practices
Judaism is defined by practices that can be broadly grouped into three categories: ritual and cultural, ethical and religious. Rituals and customs include the daily observance of prayer and the recitation of blessings; the observance of weekly, annual and other festivals, holidays and special occasions; and the use of rituals such as circumcision, immersion in a mikveh (ritual bath), and the lighting of Shabbat and holiday candles.
Ritual also includes the observance of dietary laws, such as the separation of milk and meat, and the avoiding of certain foods. These laws are seen as a way of expressing respect for the holiness of life, and as a reminder of God’s presence. Ethical and religious practices include an emphasis on study, service to others, and social justice.
Diversity
Judaism is a very diverse religion, comprising several different denominations and interpretations. This plurality is a source of strength, and serves to enrich the religion and open it up to new possibilities. The various denominations have disagreements over the interpretation of certain aspects of the religion, but all share a commitment to their Jewish identity, and a respect and love for their fellow Jews.
The diversity of Judaism has allowed it to survive, adapt and thrive in the face of adversity, while still maintaining its core values. This is exemplified by the ability of Jews around the world to co-exist and practice in relative harmony, despite their religious differences.
Cultural Impact
Judaism is a major influence on the culture and values of many cultures and countries around the world. Its emphasis on ethics and morality, as well as its strong sense of community and commitment to social justice, have had a lasting impact on societies both in the Jewish diaspora and beyond.
In particular, the Jewish emphasis on education and the pursuit of knowledge have been significant influences on the development of science, medicine and the arts, as well as international law. It has also been a major source of philo
