Judaism The first great monotheistic religion What does

Judaism The first great monotheistic religion What does monotheistic mean? Belief in ONE GOD

The Beginnings of Judaism Jews believe… n Abraham was “called” by Yahweh (God) from his native Mesopotamia (now northern Iraq) to the land of the Canaanites (now Israel/Palestine) n God asked Abraham to live a life faithful to God n In return, God made a promise, or covenant, to make him and his people a “great nation” with a permanent home on that land.

Modern Issues n n n Historically, Jews have been persecuted (mistreated) and forced from one country to another with no place they could call their permanent home. The establishment of modern Israel (seen by Jews as fulfillment of God’s promise) has not been welcomed by Arabs in the region. The Middle East is locked in a cycle of violence and revenge among various groups.

Facts on Judaism n Sacred text (book) – Torah n Place of worship – Synagogue

Facts on Judaism n Spiritual leader – Rabbi n Denominations (divisions) – Orthodox, Conservative, Reform n Hanukkah, Passover, Rosh Hashanah

Major Beliefs n n n One true God is present everywhere God made a covenant with Abraham God chose the Hebrews as his people God gave the Hebrews the Ten Commandments through Moses The Torah is a sacred recording of laws and events in Jewish history Prophets taught about moral standards and justice