Introduction to Judaism | Religion, Philosophy & Ethics for GCSE/IGCSE - Year 11 PDF Download

Introduction to Judaism

Judaism, originating approximately 3,500 years ago, stands as one of the world's oldest monotheistic religions.

The Covenant

The roots of Judaism trace back to a sacred covenant established with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and later solidified through Moses. This covenant stipulates that by adhering to God's laws, as outlined in the Torah, the Israelites would be recognized as His chosen people. Jewish tradition holds that this divine selection carries the responsibility to share God's message with humanity.

Jewish Identity

Not all individuals identifying as Jewish are religiously observant. Many embrace a cultural Jewish identity, participating in traditions without strict adherence to religious practices, while others are devout, practicing Jews.

Global Jewish Population

The global Jewish population numbers around 17 million. The largest communities reside in:

• United States: Approximately 6.5 million
• Israel: About 6 million
• United Kingdom: Roughly 300,000

The Torah

The Torah, Judaism's central sacred text, contains 613 commandments that guide Jewish life and practice, followed to varying degrees by Jews worldwide.

Key Figures

Abraham and Moses are pivotal figures in Judaism's founding, shaping its theological and cultural foundations.

Denominations

Judaism encompasses diverse groups with distinct beliefs and practices, including:

• Ultra-Orthodox: Strictly traditional, emphasizing rigorous adherence to Jewish law.
• Hasidic: A mystical, spiritually focused movement within Orthodoxy.
• Orthodox: Committed to traditional practices and interpretations.
• Reform: Emphasizes ethical teachings and adaptation to modern life.
• Liberal/Progressive: Advocates for flexibility and inclusivity in practice.

History of Persecution

Jewish people have faced significant persecution throughout history, marked by:

• Massacres during the Christian Crusades.
• Widespread hostility toward Jews and Muslims in Europe during the 13th and 15th centuries.
• The Holocaust, where approximately six million Jews were killed by the Nazis during World War II. In response to the Holocaust's atrocities, the state of Israel was established in 1948 as a homeland for the Jewish people.