Judaism is a monotheistic religion and the oldest of the three major Abrahamic faiths, alongside Christianity and Islam. It is primarily associated with the Jewish people, who are both its followers and an ethnic group with a shared history, culture, and ancestry. Judaism encompasses a comprehensive system of beliefs, practices, rituals, and ethical principles that structure the religious life of its adherents.
At the core of Judaism lies the belief in a covenant between God and the Jewish people, forged by Abraham, the first patriarch. Central to this covenant is the Torah, the most sacred text of Judaism, which includes the Five Books of Moses (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy). The Torah serves as a guide for Jewish life, containing religious laws (mitzvot) and moral teachings that emphasize justice, compassion, and ethical behavior.
Judaism is characterized by various religious observances and practices, such as communal prayer in synagogues, the study of sacred texts, and engagement in acts of loving-kindness (gemilut chassadim). Key holidays and festivals in the Jewish calendar include Passover, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Hanukkah. Additionally, Judaism emphasizes the importance of the family unit, with lifecycle events like circumcision, bar/bat mitzvahs, and weddings holding significant symbolic value.
Throughout history, Judaism has developed different religious denominations and philosophical movements, which have contributed to the richness and diversity in its interpretation and practice. It has profoundly influenced other religions and civilizations, contributing to the development of ethical monotheism, social justice, and the belief in the inherent worth and dignity of every individual.
