Definitions for Judaism

Question 1

Diaspora

Answer 1

A Greek word meaning “sowing of seed” or “dispersal.” In the context of Jewish history,Diaspora is the word used when referring to the Jewish population living outside of Israel.

Question 2

The Holocaust

Answer 2

The mass murder of 6 mil-
lion Jews by the Nazis during the Second World War.

Question 3

Anti-Semitism

Answer 3

Hostility and prejudice toward Jews.

Question 4

Mitzvah

Answer 4

A commandment from God; the act of performing a good deed. The most well known mitzvoth are the Ten Commandments.

Question 5

Rabbi

Answer 5

A Jewish scholar or teacher, especially of the law; a person appointed as a Jewish religious leader.

Question 6

Chosen People

Answer 6

The idea that God chose the Jewish people to be the keepers of his covenant on earth. The concept of “chosen” is reciprocal, with God choosing humanity and humanity choosing God.

Question 7

The Western Wall

Answer 7

The remaining part of
the wall of Herod’s temple in Jerusalem
where Jews traditionally pray and lament
on Fridays.