Judaism is one of the oldest monotheistic religions in the world. Much of its basis deals with engaging with the text of the Written Torah (the Torah, Prophets and Writings) and the Oral Torah, a rich tradition of laws, stories, and logic.
Another important aspect of Judaism is the “covenantal” relationship between God and the Children of Israel (later to be known as Jews) that is found in the Hebrew Bible. Judaism believes that that “covenant” is still very much in effect today.
As a religion, one of the most important aspects of Judaism is its theology that understands the Creator (God) as a single entity that has no human, animal, or physical aspects. In a word, God within Judaism is “unseen” physically but manifests as a presence in numerous ways through interaction with people and the world.
Although Judaism is for many, primarily a religion, it is also seen by many others as a culture, an ethnicity, and/or a peoplehood, in which elements of language (Hebrew, Yiddish, Ladino, Aramaic, and others), land (Israel as the foundational land of Judaism as well as a modern State), music, art, food, and literature also play a very important part.
Judaism can be seen also as a way of life that includes philosophy, psychology, diet, and perhaps most importantly our behavior towards one another.
Birthright Israel
If you’re a Jewish young adult between the ages of 18 and 32, you have the opportunity to visit Israel on a free educational trip. Check out Birthright Israel for more details and to find out if you are eligible.
Community organizations