SOR External - Judaism

revelation

The process by which God communicates divine will to humanity, encompassing both direct manifestations and the transmission of sacred law (most importantly is giving the Torah to Moses at Mount Sinai)

sin

An act that goes against God's laws (mitzvot) -  missing the mark, viewed as an action that disrupts a person's connection with God

free will

The belief that humans have the ability to choose between right and wrong, with Judaism believing that God gives laws to people and they are responsible for choosing whether or not they obey them.

divine justice

The belief that God is perfectly fair and judges all people righteously, rewarding good actions and holding people accountable for wrong-doings.

repentance

The process of turning back to moral clarity (God) and repairing the harm caused by one's actions

human justice

The way that people create and enforce laws in society, aiming to reflect God's justice.

sanctity of life

Teaching that all Human Life is sacred and has infinite value.

B’tselem Elohim

(In God’s image)

Every human life is inherently sacred, possessing equal dignity, infinite worth, and a divine spark. It mandates boundless respect for all individuals, regardless of differences

covenant

A sacred agreement between God and a person that creates a lasting relationship based on commitment and responsibility. Also known as a brit in Hebrew, it describes how God promises guidance or blessing while the humans side promises loyalty and obedience to divine commandments.

Pikuach Nefesh (Sanctity of Human Life)

The foundational Jewish principle that saving a human life overrides virtually all other religious laws. If an individual's life is in danger, a person is not only permitted but obligated to break any commandment to preserve that life.

tikkun olam

Calls upon humanity to partner with God in fixing a broken world

Chesed

Combines the concepts of loving-kindness, steadfast love, mercy, and covenant loyalty

Tzedakah (justice or righteousness)

Is the Hebrew word for charity, but it translates literally to "righteousness" or "justice"

mitzvot

Commandments from God that guide religious duty, ethics, and daily life. Tradition identifies 613 mitzvot in the Torah.