Unit 4 Test Study Guide - Leela Gilbert-Gokhale

Judaism

A monotheistic religion originating from the ancient Hebrews, with a focus on ethical monotheism and a sacred covenant with God.

Abraham

The patriarch of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, known for his obedience to God and his descendants' role in shaping religious history.

Covenant

An agreement between God and Abraham, promising land and descendants in exchange for obedience and worship.

Exodus

The mass departure of the Israelites from Egypt, led by Moses, marking a significant event in Jewish history.

Passover

A Jewish holiday commemorating the Israelites' escape from slavery in Egypt, marked by the sparing of Hebrew firstborns.

Moses

A key figure in Judaism, considered a prophet and leader who received the Ten Commandments and led the Israelites out of Egypt.

Monotheism

The belief in and worship of a single god, a central tenet of Judaism emphasizing ethical behavior and justice.

Ten Commandments

Ethical commandments given to Moses by God, forming a moral code for the Israelites and future generations.

Ethical Monotheism

A form of exclusive monotheism in Judaism where God sets moral standards for humanity's behavior.

King Saul

The first king of Israel chosen by God for his military skill, who unified the tribes of Israel.

King David

Unified the Israelites, defeated the Philistines, established Jerusalem as the capital, and brought the Ark of the Covenant there.

King Solomon

Son of King David, known for his wisdom, alliances, and building projects, including the construction of the Holy Temple.

Babylonian Captivity

The period when Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar exiled upper-class Jews to Babylon, leading to a shift in Jewish identity.

Ark of the Covenant

A sacred relic of the Israelites, described as a wooden chest coated in gold, symbolizing God's presence among the people.

Book of Psalms

A collection of religious hymns attributed to King David, forming an important part of Jewish worship and scripture.

Synagogues

Buildings where Jewish congregations gather for worship, study, and community activities.

Rabbis

Jewish religious scholars or teachers who play a central role in interpreting religious texts and guiding the community.

Torah

The first five books of the Hebrew Bible, containing foundational religious teachings and laws for Jewish life.

Talmud

A compilation of ancient teachings considered sacred by traditional Jews, covering a wide range of religious and ethical topics.

Jewish Identity

The identifying characteristics include a special relationship with God who chose the Jewish people, faith connected to a people and a place, devotion to the Torah and Jewish law, emphasis on social justice, integrity, charity, and repairing the world through good deeds.

Pax Romana

A period from 27 BCE to 180 CE characterized by stable government, a strong legal system, widespread trade, and peace in the Roman Empire.

Roman Compromise

In 63 BCE, Romans conquered Judea and granted it self-rule, but in 6 CE, Rome took over Judea as a province under military governorship. Roman leaders allowed Jews to practice religion legally as long as they paid tribute, followed laws, and did not deny the emperor’s authority.

Sadducees

A sect of Judaism that denied the resurrection of the dead, the existence of spirits, and the need for oral tradition, emphasizing the importance of written law in Judaism.

Pharisees

A sect of Judaism that opposed the Sadducees, believed in resurrection, and followed legal traditions related to the ‘traditions of the fathers,’ known for their expertise in legality.

Essenes

A sect of Judaism with an apocalyptic point of view, believing in the coming of a new kingdom, and living a communal life separate from the rest of society.

Zealots

A rebel group within Judaism that resisted Roman rule and encouraged Jews to revolt against the Romans.

Ten Commandments

Given to Moses by God at Mt. Sinai, these commandments establish rules of worship and forbid actions like murder, theft, and adultery.

Sermon on the Mount

A teaching by Jesus encouraging his followers to love their enemies, be kind to everyone, especially caring for the poor and marginalized.