Judaism - Torah Flashcards
Genesis 1:1 - “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”
This verse introduces the concept of a singular, all-powerful Creator who brings the universe into existence. It emphasizes God as the ultimate source of all life and matter, setting the foundation for the monotheistic belief system in Judaism.
Genesis 1:27 - “So God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.”
This highlights the unique status of human beings, created in the image of God, signifying inherent dignity, worth, and purpose. It also conveys equality between men and women as both are equally reflections of the divine.
Genesis 12:3 - “I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”
Spoken by God to Abraham, this promise establishes the covenant between God and the descendants of Abraham, the Israelites. It suggests a special relationship where God’s blessings and protection extend to those who support Abraham’s lineage.
Exodus 3:14 - “And God said to Moses, ‘I AM WHO I AM.’”
This phrase, spoken by God from the burning bush, reveals God’s eternal and self-sustaining nature. “I AM WHO I AM” implies a being that is independent, self-existent, and beyond human comprehension. It is also the origin of the name Yahweh (YHWH), a sacred name for God in Judaism.
Exodus 20:12 - “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”
One of the Ten Commandments, this emphasizes the importance of respecting and honouring one’s parents. It not only highlights family values but also implies that respecting family is connected to the health and longevity of the individual and the community.
Leviticus 19:18 - “Love your neighbour as yourself.”
This commandment calls for empathy, kindness, and respect toward others. It promotes social harmony and establishes the principle of treating others with the same regard and compassion that one would want for oneself. This is often viewed as a foundational ethic in Judaism and beyond.
Leviticus 19:34 - “The stranger who resides with you shall be to you as one of your citizens; you shall love him as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.”
This verse emphasizes empathy and compassion for foreigners and outsiders. It calls for remembering the collective past of the Israelites and treating others fairly, promoting inclusivity and social justice.
Numbers 6:24-26 - “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace.”
Known as the Priestly Blessing, this conveys God’s protection, grace, and peace for the Israelites. It is often used as a benediction, reflecting the hope for divine Favor and wellbeing for individuals and the community.
Deuteronomy 6:4-5 - “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your might.”
Known as the Shema, this declaration is a central affirmation of Jewish faith in the oneness of God. It calls for total devotion and love for God, encompassing all aspects of one’s being—emotional, spiritual, and physical.
Deuteronomy 30:19 - “I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live.”
This verse highlights the concept of free will, urging individuals to make choices that lead to life and prosperity. It encourages taking responsibility for one’s actions and emphasizes the importance of choosing a righteous and life-affirming path.
