Judaism

Hebrew Bible: Almost all knowledge of the Israelites is derived from the Hebrew Bible, equivalent to the Old Testament in Christianity.
The Torah: The first five books of the Hebrew Bible containing stories and descriptions of Hebrew laws.

Significance: Abraham is recognized as the father of the Hebrews, which is why religions based on his lineage are termed "Abrahamic Religions."
Background:
- Abraham originated from Mesopotamia.
- He later migrated to the land known as Canaan.

Migration: The ancient Hebrews left Canaan due to droughts and settled in Egypt.
Slavery: Upon arrival in Egypt, they were sold into slavery.
Moses' Role: According to the Hebrew Bible, Moses was sent by God to liberate them and guide them back to their promised land (Canaan).

Pharaoh's Decree: Fearing a growing Israelite population, the Pharaoh ordered the killing of all Jewish male infants.
Moses' Rescuer: Moses' mother placed him in a basket in the river where he was found by an Egyptian.
Destiny: Moses eventually learns of his heritage and is commanded by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt.

Mt. Sinai: Moses leads the Israelites to Mt. Sinai where he prays and receives the Ten Commandments on two stone tablets from God.
Function of the Commandments: These commandments form the foundational civil and religious laws in Judaism and have influenced many Western nations.

Contract with God: With their liberation, the Jews entered a covenant with God to follow the Ten Commandments in exchange for the promised land.
List of Commandments:
1. Only one God exists.
2. Avoid making idols.
3. Do not misuse God's name.
4. Keep the Sabbath day holy.
5. Honor your parents.
6. Do not commit murder.
7. Do not commit adultery.
8. Do not steal.
9. Do not bear false witness.
10. Do not covet what belongs to others.
Instruction: Just read and listen.

Historical Context: Upon returning to Israel around 1,000 B.C., the Hebrews found their land occupied, leading to conflicts and wars until they reconquered it.
Instruction: Just read and listen.

Wandering: The Israelites spent 40 years in the desert before returning to Canaan after Moses' death.
Tribal Settlement: Upon return, they settled into 12 tribes, eventually forming the Kingdom of Israel around 1000 BCE.
Instruction: Just read and listen.

Kingdom of Israel: Established under King David with Jerusalem as its capital.
Division: After King Solomon's death, the kingdom split into two: the Kingdom of Israel and the Kingdom of Judah.
Conquests:
- Assyrians invaded and took over.
- Babylonians exiled Jews to Babylon.
- Persians permitted Jews to rebuild in Jerusalem.