Judaism & Christianity Lecture Notes

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on key concepts from Judaism and Christianity lecture notes.

Merneptah Stele

An Egyptian victory inscription that contains the earliest known reference to 'Israel' outside the Bible, dating to around 1208 BCE.

Covenant

A reciprocal agreement between God and Abraham, where Abraham commits to following God’s laws in exchange for promises of descendants, land, and protection.

Torah

The first five books of the Hebrew Bible, consisting of Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.

Documentary Hypothesis

A scholarly theory proposing that the Torah is derived from multiple independent sources that were later edited together.

Pharisees

A Jewish sect that emphasized strict adherence to the Law and oral traditions, critical of Roman rule but not openly rebellious.

Sadducees

A Jewish sect connected to the priestly aristocracy and Temple leadership, cooperating with Rome to maintain authority.

Essenes

A separatist Jewish community that withdrew from society, viewed Temple leadership as corrupt, and expected divine intervention.

Zealots

A militant Jewish faction advocating violent resistance against Roman rule, contributing to the outbreak of the Great Revolt.

Jesus Movement

Early Jewish followers of Jesus who continued to practice Judaism while recognizing him as a teacher and prophet.

Nicene Creed

A statement of Christian belief established at the Council of Nicaea affirming the divinity of Jesus and rejecting Arianism.

Vulgate

Jerome's Latin translation of the Bible that became the standardized text for Western Christianity.

Arianism

The belief that Jesus was created by God and therefore not fully divine, leading to significant theological disputes.

Gospel

The account of Jesus's life and teachings, forming the basis of Christian beliefs and scripture.

Crucifixion

A method of execution used by the Romans, notably employed in the execution of Jesus.

Resurrection

The Christian belief that Jesus rose from the dead, central to the faith and seen as a fulfillment of God's promises.

House churches

Early Christian meeting places often held in private homes, crucial for community building.

Council of Nicaea

A council convened by Emperor Constantine in 325 CE to address the Arian controversy and unify Christian doctrine.

Martyrdom

The act of dying for one's faith, which inspired early Christians and strengthened community identity.

Edict of Milan

A proclamation that granted religious tolerance within the Roman Empire, allowing Christians to practice openly.

Theodosius I

The Roman Emperor who declared Christianity the official religion of the Roman Empire.

Bishop

A church leader overseeing a diocese, responsible for teaching and maintaining doctrinal unity.

Deacon

A church servant responsible for charitable acts and administration within the church.

Canon of Scripture

The official collection of biblical books recognized as authoritative in Christian faith.