Judaism - Beliefs Flashcards
What kind of religion is Judaism in terms of its belief in God?
Its monotheistic. This means that Jews believe there is only one God.
What is the Shema?
An important Jewish prayer in which the belief in God as one is expressed.
What is meant by Jews believing God is the creator and sustainer?
That God created the universe out of nothing exectly as he wanted it to be, and sustains the world so all specie are able to live in it.
What do Jews believe God gave humans in terms of choice and action?
Free will, and because of this, evil has to exist.
Why do Jews view God as the lawgiver?
Because, to help Jews use their free will correctly, he has given them many laws which he expects them to obey.
Why is God views as a judge?
As he judges how well people follow his laws and rewards or punishes them as a result.
What is the Shekinah?
The divine presence of God on earth. Jews believe there are occasions in theri history when God’s presence has been experienced on earth.
Why is the afterlife not an important focus for Jews?
There is little agreement and many do not think it its important to know what happens after death. They are more concerned with focusing on the present and living in a way that pleases God.
What do most Jews believe will happen after they die?
They believe God will judge them after they die, some will go to Heaven and others will go to Sheol (a place of waiting where souls are cleansed).
What is the general belief for Jews about resurrection (rising from the dead to live again)?
Some Jews believe in resurrection, however, many Jews reject the idea of resurrection.
Who is the Messiah in Judaism
The Messiah (annointed one) is a future leader of the Jews who will rule over humanity with kindness and justice.
What is the Messianic age?
A time where the Messiah will rule in and when the world is united in peace.
What is the Promised Land?
The land of Canaan, which God promised to Abraham and the Jews.
What happened after Abraham had travelled to Canaan?
He made a covenant (agreement) with God. God promised Abraham he would be the father of many nations. In return, Abraham was required to live dedicated to God.
What is the covenant at Sinai?
The covenant between God and Moses, who represented the Jewish people. This requires Jews to follow God’s laws (including the Ten Commandments) in return for his protection and blessing.
