Judaism: Sacred Texts

Question 1

What are the sacred texts?

Answer 1

• Hebrew Bible
• Talmud

Question 2

What is the Hebrew Bible?

Answer 2

• contains the Law
• authoritative: word of God handed to Moses
• provides history/origins
• reminder of the covenant
• major theme: people of Israel had a special relationship with God + land

Question 3

What are the three parts?

Answer 3

Torah: first 5 books, contains 613 mitzvoot, given at Sinai - LAW
Nevi’im: Israel’s history + what God taught prophets - His message
Kethuvim: books written by prophets, inspired by God - tells how people should live

Question 4

How is the Hebrew Bible significant for adherents?

Answer 4

• reveal one God - monotheism
• used for daily confession : pray Shema
• Sources of identity: educates + guides their role as chosen people
• 613 mitzvot covers prayer, sacrifices, ritual enactments, dietary laws, shabbat observance

Question 5

How is the Talmud significant for adherents?

Answer 5

• forms framework within which Jews remain faithful to covenant - maintain position as God’s Chosen People
• assists Jews to interpret intention of mitzvot + apply them to everyday life

Question 6

What is the Talmud?

Answer 6

• supports Hebrew Bible
• explains meaning of mitzvot + how they can be applied
• interprets the Torah for adherents
• application of mizvot for modern adherents