Comparative Theology Final: Judiasm

Judaism:

1. Core Ideas of Jewish Belief:

   • Belief in one God (monotheism).

   • The covenant between God and the Jewish people.

   • The importance of following God's laws (Torah).

2. Biblical History:

   • Abraham: Seen as the father of Judaism, made the first covenant with God.

   • Moses: Led the Israelites out of Egypt, received the Ten Commandments.

   • Prophets: Messengers of God's will (e.g., Isaiah, Jeremiah).

   • Diaspora: The dispersion of Jews outside Israel.

   • Apocalypticism: Belief in an ultimate divine judgment and end times.

3. Role of God in Jewish History:

   • God actively intervenes in the world, guiding the Jewish people and history.

4. Sources and Understandings of Law in Judaism:

   • Torah: The first five books of the Hebrew Bible, central to Jewish law.

   • Pentateuch: Another term for the Torah.

   • TANAKH: Hebrew Bible, composed of the Torah, Prophets (Nevi'im), and Writings (Ketuvim).

   • Halakhah: Jewish legal tradition.

   • Talmud: Commentary on the Torah, providing interpretations.

   • Midrash: Rabbinic commentary on biblical stories.

5. Jewish Dietary Code:

   • Kashrut: Dietary laws (e.g., prohibition of pork, separation of meat and dairy).

6. Jewish Festivals and Rituals:

   • Passover: Celebrates the Exodus from Egypt.

   • Yom Kippur: Day of atonement and repentance.

   • Sabbath (Shabbat): Day of rest from Friday evening to Saturday evening.

7. Denominations/Branches of Judaism:

   • Orthodox Judaism: Adheres strictly to traditional beliefs and practices.

   • Conservative Judaism: Balances tradition with modernity.

   • Reform Judaism: Liberal interpretation of Jewish laws.