What are the core beliefs and practices of Judaism?

Definition and Overview

Judaism is one of the world’s oldest monotheistic faiths, centered on the belief in one God (Hebrew: Elohim or Yahweh) and rooted in the Hebrew Scriptures (often termed the Tanakh). Distinct from other religions in the ancient Near East that worshiped multiple deities, Judaism emphasizes that there is only one divine Creator and Sustainer of the cosmos. Over the centuries, Jewish traditions have expanded through rabbinic writings, communal customs, and historical developments, yet the foundational beliefs and practices have remained strikingly consistent. Archaeological evidence such as the Dead Sea Scrolls (dating from the third century BC to the first century AD), discovered at Qumran, confirms that many ancient manuscripts of Jewish Scripture match in remarkable detail with what is read today, underscoring the longevity and consistency of Jewish belief and practice.

Monotheism and the Shema

At the heart of Judaism stands the unwavering conviction that God is One. This is best articulated in the Shema, a daily recitation derived from Deuteronomy 6:4: “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is One.” This statement affirms the strict monotheism of Judaism and calls for wholehearted devotion to God. Historically, this emphasis on a singular, transcendent God was unique among many ancient civilizations whose religions were typically polytheistic. Jewish tradition teaches that this God is personal, just, merciful, and intimately involved in the affairs of humanity.

Sacred Texts

1. Tanakh (Hebrew Bible)

The Hebrew Bible (Tanakh) comprises three sections: the Torah (Law), the Nevi’im (Prophets), and the Ketuvim (Writings). The Torah includes the first five books: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. These texts record God’s creation of the world, the covenant with the patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob), the formation of the nation of Israel, and the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai.

2. Talmud and Rabbinic Literature

Alongside written Scripture, Judaism also recognizes the Oral Law, later compiled in the Mishnah (around AD 200) and subsequently elucidated in the Gemara. Together, they form the Talmud. Rabbinic tradition holds that the Oral Law and the Written Law were given simultaneously, ensuring that each commandment and teaching is preserved and properly interpreted. The Talmud has been a central source of Jewish religious thought and legal rulings for centuries and sees frequent citation in matters of ethics, rituals, and civil law.

3. Reliability and Continuity

The preservation of Jewish Scriptures is attested in the Dead Sea Scrolls, which match the Masoretic Text (traditionally copied by scribes) in meaningful ways and confirm the continuous transmission of the Hebrew Bible. Museums and research institutions worldwide have conducted textual analysis (including radiocarbon dating on scroll fragments) that demonstrates a high degree of continuity over millennia.

Covenant and Law

Central to Jewish belief is the covenant established between God and the people of Israel. Exodus details the liberation of the Hebrews from Egypt and the giving of the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1–17) at Mount Sinai. The broader body of laws (613 commandments according to rabbinic tradition) covers both moral and ritual obligations. These commandments encompass personal ethics, dietary laws, civil ordinances, and worship directives. Observance is viewed not merely as fulfilling legal requirements but as an expression of devotion and love toward God.

Practices and Observances

1. Worship and Prayer

Jewish worship has historically revolved around the synagogue after the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem. Prayer services occur three times daily in traditional communities (morning, afternoon, evening). Public reading and study of the Torah form a significant part of synagogue services, reflecting the scriptural emphasis on teaching these words diligently to each generation.

2. Dietary Laws (Kashrut)

Observant Jews follow specific dietary regulations known as kashrut (kosher). These derive mainly from passages in Leviticus and Deuteronomy. Clean versus unclean animals, proper slaughter (shechita), and separation of dairy and meat are the most well-known aspects of these laws.

3. Circumcision (Brit Milah)

From the time of Abraham, circumcision on the eighth day after birth remains a harbinger of the covenant (Genesis 17). This rite has spiritual and communal significance, linking each new generation to God’s promises to the patriarchs.

4. Sabbath (Shabbat)

The Sabbath begins at sunset on Friday and concludes at sunset on Saturday. It is a day of rest and worship, recalling the seventh day of creation (Genesis 2:2–3). Traditional observance includes refraining from work, gathering for synagogue services, and spending quality time with family.

Festivals and Holy Days

1. Passover (Pesach)

Passover commemorates the Exodus from Egypt, celebrating freedom from bondage. Families gather for a Seder meal, retelling the Exodus story (Exodus 12) through symbolic foods and readings.

2. Shavuot (Feast of Weeks)

Shavuot occurs seven weeks after Passover and recalls the giving of the Law at Sinai. Jewish communities read the Book of Ruth and focus on the centrality of Torah as God’s revelation to Israel.

3. Rosh Hashanah (New Year) and Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement)

Rosh Hashanah inaugurates the Jewish year with reflection and the blowing of the shofar (ram’s horn). Ten days later, Yom Kippur marks the holiest day of the year, devoted to fasting and repentance, aligning with themes in Leviticus 16 regarding atonement and purification.

4. Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles)

Sukkot recalls Israel’s wilderness wanderings, with families constructing temporary booths (sukkot). Worshipers remember God’s provision in the desert and celebrate agricultural blessings.

5. Hanukkah (Feast of Dedication) and Purim

Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of the Temple under the Maccabees (c. 2nd century BC). Purim celebrates deliverance from a genocidal plot recounted in the Book of Esther. Although post-Torah in origin, both are widely observed and hold deep spiritual and communal meaning.

Messianic Hope

Judaism contains a variety of perspectives concerning the coming Messiah. Traditional Jewish teaching maintains an expectation that a future descendant of King David will usher in an era of peace and divine rule on earth. These promises spring notably from passages such as Isaiah 11 and Jeremiah 23, describing an ideal king who will gather the exiles and restore righteousness. While views differ on the Messiah’s nature and timing, the hope for ultimate redemption remains a unifying strand.

Historic Preservation and Identity

Over the centuries, Jews have experienced diaspora, persecution, and migrations across continents. Despite these trials, Jewish religious identity remains highly resilient. Outside documents—such as references by the first-century historian Flavius Josephus—highlight Jewish customs, Temple traditions, and historical events that align with the biblical narrative. Archaeological discoveries (e.g., the Pool of Siloam in Jerusalem, portions of the ancient walls, the Tel Dan Stele referencing King David) offer external confirmation of people, places, and customs recounted in Hebrew Scripture.

Judaism Today

In modern times, Judaism includes various branches—Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, and others—each upholding core Jewish beliefs while differing on interpretations of law and practice. Hebrew Scripture remains the anchor, and observances such as Sabbath, dietary laws, and festivals continue in diverse Jewish communities worldwide, maintaining a broad cultural and spiritual continuity with ancient tradition.

Summary and Conclusion

Judaism’s core beliefs and practices revolve around faith in one God, adherence to the covenantal commandments found in the Torah, the ongoing study of Sacred Scripture, and a cycle of worship and festivals that commemorate key events in Israel’s formative history. Archaeological evidence, ancient manuscripts, and consistent practice across millennia reinforce the reliability of the Jewish Scriptures and attest to the identity, continuity, and resilience of the Jewish people. Through monotheistic devotion, prescribed rituals, and collective remembrance, Judaism preserves its foundational call to love God wholeheartedly and to shape a life that honors the commandments handed down through the generations.