extra judaism questions Flashcards
How did the Holocaust impact Jewish culture and identity?
The Holocaust devastated Jewish communities, killing six million Jews and leaving survivors with deep trauma. It reinforced the importance of preserving Jewish traditions, education, and history. Holocaust remembrance became central to Jewish identity, emphasizing “never forget.”
Why was the establishment of Israel in 1948 influenced by the Holocaust?
The Holocaust highlighted the need for a safe Jewish homeland, leading to increased Zionist efforts. After World War II, many Jews sought refuge in Israel to ensure protection from future persecution. The United Nations’ support led to the establishment of Israel in 1948.
What are some key sources of anti-Semitism throughout history?
Religious Anti-Semitism: Jews were blamed for killing Jesus and causing plagues, leading to persecution in medieval Europe.
Economic and Social Stereotypes: Jews were often excluded from many jobs, leading them to work in money-lending, which created harmful stereotypes about greed.
Political Anti-Semitism: False conspiracy theories about Jews secretly controlling governments and media led to violence and discrimination.
Modern Anti-Semitism: Hate crimes, online misinformation, and vandalism of Jewish sites continue today.
How did religious and economic stereotypes contribute to anti-Semitism?
Religious stereotypes blamed Jews for the death of Jesus and other societal issues, while economic stereotypes associated Jews with money-lending and greed. These harmful views led to persecution, discrimination, and violence.
What was the goal of Zionism, and who were its key figures?
Zionism aimed to establish a Jewish homeland in Israel, driven by the need for a safe space for Jews, especially in light of rising anti-Semitism in Europe. Key figures included Theodor Herzl, who advocated for a Jewish state, and other early Zionists who worked toward creating a Jewish homeland.
How did the Holocaust affect the push for a Jewish homeland in Israel?
After the Holocaust, the urgency for a safe Jewish homeland increased. Many Jews saw Israel as their only hope for protection, leading to greater global support for its establishment, culminating in the United Nations’ vote in favor of a Jewish state in 1948.
What are the main causes of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?
The conflict arises from competing national identities and territorial claims. Both Jews and Palestinians have historical connections to the land, but tensions escalated due to Jewish immigration and the establishment of Israel in 1948, leading to a long-running dispute over land and sovereignty.
What do the seven- and nine-branched menorah symbolize in Jewish tradition?
Seven-Branched Menorah: Represents divine wisdom, the seven days of creation, and the Jewish people’s mission to be a “light unto the nations.”
Nine-Branched Menorah (Hanukkiah): Used during Hanukkah to celebrate the miracle of the oil lasting for eight days after the Maccabees’ victory. The ninth branch, the shamash, lights the others.
What is the significance of the Star of David in Jewish identity?
the Star of David, a six-pointed star formed by two overlapping triangles, symbolizes the unity of God, the Torah, and the Jewish people. During the Holocaust, it was forced upon Jews to identify them, and after World War II, it became the symbol of Israel.
Why is the Western Wall considered a sacred site for Jews?
The Western Wall is the last remaining part of the Second Temple, destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE. It is considered the closest place to where God’s presence resides and is a major site for prayer and pilgrimage. Jews often insert written prayers into the wall’s cracks.
How does Orthodox Judaism differ from Reform Judaism?
Orthodox Judaism: Strict adherence to traditional Jewish law (Halakha), including the observance of the Sabbath, kosher laws, and separate gender roles in worship.
Reform Judaism: More flexible in interpreting Jewish law, with a focus on ethics over ritual. Services are often in the local language, and men and women participate equally in worship.
What are some defining features of Hasidic Judaism?
Hasidic Judaism is a subgroup of Orthodox Judaism that emphasizes spirituality, mysticism, and joyful worship. It originated in 18th-century Eastern Europe. Hasidic Jews follow a Rebbe (spiritual leader) and wear distinctive clothing, such as black coats and fur hats. They engage in prayer, music, and dance as expressions of spirituality.
How does Conservative Judaism balance tradition with modernity?
Conservative Judaism respects Jewish law (Halakha) but believes it can evolve over time. It seeks to maintain a balance between preserving traditional practices and adapting to modern life. Services are typically in Hebrew, and gender equality is emphasized in worship and leadership.
What roles do women play in Orthodox, Reform, and Conservative Judaism?
Orthodox Judaism: Women focus on family life, education, and home. They are not permitted to lead prayers or serve as rabbis.
Reform and Conservative Judaism: Women can serve as rabbis, cantors, and leaders. They participate equally in prayers, rituals, and religious decisions.
What is the “Women of the Wall” movement?
The “Women of the Wall” is a feminist movement advocating for women’s right to pray at the Western Wall, read from the Torah, and participate fully in religious rituals, including leading prayers, which were traditionally restricted in Orthodox Judaism.
sadducess
temple worship, upper class
pharises
interrupters of the law
zealots
forceful takeback of promised land
esseries
secluded-world ending
samaritans
rejected prophets and writtings
genocide
deliberate destruction of national, ethnic, racial or religious groups
shoah/holocaust
calmity or catastope in hebrew
mob mentality
effect of a large group on a persons actions
propaganda
marches, parades, mein kamf, hitler youth
crimes against humanity
horrible offences that are serious attack on human dignity or give grave humiliation or a degration of humans.
what caused the isreal-palestine war
-mccabean hussien correspondence promised arabs their land in exchange for arab help fighting the ottomons in ww1
-balfour declaration declared isreal as the national home for jewish people with rise of zionism
-both promised land
-UN approved to divide states but arab league rejected because they wanted their land
-isreal declared independence in 1948 and arab invaded them sparking the ward
