7.8: Life after death

Question 1

Jews belief on life after death?

Answer 1

• At death the soul goes to be judged by God
• Gan Eden is eternal, and Gehninom is temporary
• Olam HaBa- life to come, this is often closely linked to the Messiah
• Nearly all Jews believe in the resurrection of the dead at the end of the world

Question 2

Divergent attitudes:

Answer 2

• Some: the resurrection will occur when the Messiah comes during the Messianic Age; others: the resurrection but just not a Messiah; some: resurrection is for all, others for the righteous
• Some: judgement on how they act (Mitzvots) others believe it is both action and belief
• All believe in heaven; some: believe that those who are evil will go to hell for eternity, others just temporarily

Question 3

Importance of belief in life after death:

Answer 3

• Makes them follow the Mitzvots - judgement
• Gives both meaning and purpose to Jews – key belief

Question 4

Life after Death - Sources of Wisdom:

Answer 4

Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt. (Daniel 12:2)