judaism beliefs and teachings - 5 markers Flashcards
(8 cards)
explain two reasons why the mitzvot are important for jews today
The mitzvot are seen as a direct way of serving God, helping Jews live holy and obedient lives. Observing the commandments is a form of worship and shows love for God.
They also help Jews build strong communities and maintain identity in a modern world. Many mitzvot relate to justice, kindness, and family. The Torah says, “Love the Lord your God and keep his requirements” (Deuteronomy 11:1), encouraging Jews to follow God’s laws daily.
explain why the torah is a vital part of jewish life
Jews believe the Torah is God’s word, revealed to Moses at Mount Sinai. It provides divine guidance on how to live, covering worship, morality, festivals, family life, and more.
It contains the 613 mitzvot, which are central to Jewish practice. By following the Torah, Jews fulfil their covenant with God. As Exodus says, “The Lord said to Moses, ‘Write down these words, for in accordance with these words I have made a covenant with you’” (Exodus 34:27).
explain two reasons why the decalogue is important for jews
These commandments were given directly by God, making them highly authoritative. They cover both duties to God (like keeping the Sabbath) and to others (like not stealing), forming a foundation for Jewish law and values.
They are still read and honoured in synagogues today, showing their lasting relevance. The Torah introduces them with, “And God spoke all these words” (Exodus 20:1), highlighting their divine origin and importance.
explain two reasons why the covenant with abraham is so important for jews
It marked the beginning of the Jewish people, when God chose Abraham and promised to make his descendants into a great nation. This makes the Jewish people feel uniquely connected to God through ancestry and responsibility.
God also promised Abraham and his family the land of Canaan, which many Jews still associate with modern Israel. The Torah says, “To your descendants I give this land” (Genesis 15:18), making this covenant a lasting symbol of Jewish identity and purpose.
explain two differences in the belief in life after death between judaism and the main religious traditions in great britain
In Christianity, most believers think that after death, people go to heaven or hell based on their faith in Jesus. In Judaism, beliefs are more varied — some believe in Olam Ha-Ba (the world to come), and some believe in resurrection, but there is less focus on specific destinations.
Christians believe that faith in Jesus brings salvation, as stated in John 3:16, “Whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Jews do not accept Jesus as the Messiah and believe that righteous actions and following God’s commandments lead to reward in the afterlife.
explain two ways the messiah is understood by different jews
Orthodox Jews believe the Messiah will be a future leader from the line of King David who will rebuild the Temple, gather all Jews back to Israel, and bring peace. He will be chosen by God to carry out these tasks, and his arrival is part of God’s plan.
Reform Jews, however, do not usually believe in a personal Messiah. Instead, they look forward to a messianic age, which humans must help create by working for peace and justice.
As the prophet Jeremiah said, “I will raise up for David a righteous branch” (Jeremiah 23:5), showing the roots of this belief.
explain two reasons why the shekinah is important for many jews
The Shekhinah shows that God is close and involved in the world. Jews believe God’s presence was with them during key moments in history, such as guiding them in the wilderness or appearing at Mount Sinai. This helps Jews feel spiritually connected to God today.
It is also believed that the Shekhinah is present when Jews study the Torah or pray, giving spiritual value to everyday religious actions. This belief comes from the Talmud, but is supported by the Torah, which says, “Then the cloud covered the Tent of Meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the Tabernacle” (Exodus 40:34).
explain two ways the almighty is seen as one in the torah
Jews believe that God is completely indivisible, with no parts, form or partners. This is very different from beliefs in other religions, like Christianity, where God is seen as three in one. In Judaism, God’s oneness means He alone should be worshipped.
The idea of oneness is central to Jewish identity and worship. It is expressed daily in the Shema, which states, “The Lord is our God, the Lord is one” (Deuteronomy 6:4). This reminds Jews of God’s unity and their duty to stay loyal to Him alone.
