Background Information
Christianity and Judaism have been integral parts of the human culture since ancient times. Christianity is the largest religion in the world, with around 2 billion members worldwide. Judaism, on the other hand, is much smaller, with around 14 million members around the world. Both religions have intricate histories, elaborate texts, and vibrant cultures. Despite their similarities, there are also several differences that can be seen contrasting Christianity and Judaism.
God
The central difference between Christianity and Judaism lies in the concept of God. Christianity primarily follows the teachings of Jesus Christ and is monotheistic, believing in one God. In contrast, Judaism adheres to the teachings of the Torah and is more complex. It believes in the existence of one God, but also understands that this one God is composed of multiple aspects—each responsible for different functions. This is known as the Shema, or the “God of Israel”.
Rituals & Practices
Another difference between Christianity and Judaism lies in the rituals and practices the two faiths involve. In Christianity, baptism, confession, and partaking in the holy communion ceremonies are among the key rituals. Judaism, on the other hand, usually centers around the Sabbath, or Saturday, as its primary ritual. This includes activities such as prayer, study, and celebration. Additionally, there are several unique rituals unique to Judaism, such as the bris, or circumcision.
Sacred Texts
The two faiths also differ in the way they view their sacred texts. Christianity’s central scriptures are the New Testament and the Old Testament, while Judaism reads the Tanakh, or the Hebrew Bible. Additionally, the two faiths view and interpret their sacred texts differently. Christianity accepts Jesus as their Messiah and views the Old Testament as a precursor to the New Testament. Judaism does not accept Jesus as the Messiah and views the Old Testament as a primary source of authority.
Holy Sites
Christianity and Judaism also each have their own holy sites. In Christianity, the center of the faith is located in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. This is the site of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. In Judaism, the most important religious site is the Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall, near the Temple Mount. This is the site of the ancient Jewish temple, and the wall is the physical remnant of this sacred site.
Beliefs
Finally, one key difference between Christianity and Judaism is their different beliefs. Christianity has extensive doctrines surrounding the divinity and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and adherents believe that he is their Savior and the son of God. Judaism, however, does not accept Jesus as the Messiah and instead centers around the belief in a single, universal God. Additionally, Judaism is also based on halakha, a set of laws pertaining to everyday practice and lifestyle.
Morality & Ethics
Both Christianity and Judaism heavily emphasize the importance of morality and ethics. In Christianity, morality is viewed through the lens of the Ten Commandments, which provide moral guidance for believers. Additionally, Christianity teaches that morality is rooted in compassion and love for others. In Judaism, morality is focused mainly on the observance of the 613 mitzvot, or commandments, that are listed throughout the Tanakh. Additionally, Jewish ethics heavily emphasize social justice and providing for the community.
Role of Jesus
Perhaps the most notable difference between Christianity and Judaism is the role of Jesus in each faith. Christianity views Jesus as the son of God and the savior of humanity. As such, Jesus is worshiped and his teachings are stressed as the basis of Christian life. In Judaism, on the other hand, Jesus is not recognized as the son of God, nor is he worshiped. Instead, he’s viewed as a Jewish prophet and teachings pertaining to him are standard Jewish beliefs.
Doctrine of Salvation
The two faiths have different approaches to salvation as well. In Christianity, salvation is viewed as a free gift achieved through faith and acceptance of Jesus. In Judaism, salvation is earned through righteous deeds and observing mitzvot. As such, salvation is not offered freely or easily, and believers in Judaism must put in the effort to gain salvation.
Conclusion of the Law
The final difference between Christianity and Judaism lies in their views of the law. In Christianity, the law is seen as fulfilled by the teachings of Jesus and no longer in effect. In Judaism, however, the law is still in effect and must be followed to attain salvation. As such, adherents to Judaism must continue to observe the mitzvot in order to be a part of the faith.
Social Responsibility
Both Christianity and Judaism heavily emphasize the importance of social responsibility. Christians are encouraged to care for the poor, the sick, and the vulnerable in society. Similarly, Jewish teachings stress the importance of helping those in need, providing assistance to the needy, and protecting strangers. In both religions, care for the community is integral to living a life of righteousness and fulfillment.
Power of Prayer
Prayer is another common practice in both Christianity and Judaism. In Christianity, prayer is used to express gratitude and repentance, as well as make requests. Similarly, in Judaism prayer is used to express gratitude and petition God for anything desired. Additionally, both religions believe that praying on a daily basis is important for staying connected spiritually.
Priests & Clergy
The Christian and Jewish faiths also have different denominations of ordained priests and clergy. In Christianity, there are three main levels of priesthood: the episcopate, the priesthood, and the diaconate. In Judaism, there is the rabbi and the cantor. The rabbi is a religious leader and teacher while the cantor is responsible for leading the congregation in prayer.
Role of Missionaries
The two religions also differ in their stance on missionaries. In Christianity, missionaries are encouraged to spread the gospel as a way to spread the faith and help others come to a fuller understanding of Jesus and his teachings. On the other hand, in Judaism, missionaries are generally not accepted or appreciated. Instead, adherents of the faith must invite others to join the faith through study and debate.
Dietary Restrictions
The Jewish and Christian religions both have dietary restrictions, though they differ somewhat. In Christianity, certain foods considered to be unclean, such as pork, are restricted. Additionally, some consider eating meat while fasting to be disrespectful. In Judaism, dietary restrictions have been more extensive and complex. These include the observance of kosher, a dietary law that consists of over 60 regulations. Additionally, many adherents of the faith refrain from pork and shellfish.
Death & the Afterlife
The two faiths also differ in their views on death and the afterlife. Christianity views death as an opportunity, an event that allows one’s soul to ascend to heaven and be with God eternally. On the other hand, Judaism views death as natural and a necessary aspect of life. Additionally, Jewish beliefs often do not talk of an eternal afterlife or a soul leaving the earthly plane, though this does not mean that there is no concept of heaven or hell. Instead, the afterlife is viewed as a continuation of the individual’s life experience—which can be either positive or negative.
