Judaism unit 2 Test Review Flashcards
What is the Covenant in Judaism, and why is it significant?
The Covenant is the sacred agreement between God and the Jewish people, first made with Abraham and later reaffirmed with Moses at Mount Sinai. It establishes the Jews as God’s chosen people, with obligations to follow His laws.
How did the concept of the Messiah develop in Jewish history?
The Messiah (Mashiach) is believed to be a future anointed leader who will bring peace, rebuild the Temple, and restore Israel. The idea developed during the Jewish exile and was strengthened during periods of oppression
What role did Rabbis and synagogues play in Jewish life after the Exile?
After the Babylonian Exile (586 BCE), without a central Temple, synagogues became places of worship and learning, and Rabbis (Jewish scholars) became key religious leaders, interpreting and teaching Jewish law.
What was the Jewish Diaspora, and how did it impact Jewish culture?
The Diaspora refers to the scattering of Jews outside Israel, especially after the Roman destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE. It led to the adaptation of Jewish practices to different cultures while maintaining religious identity.
What was the Maccabean Revolt, and why was it important?
The Maccabean Revolt (167–160 BCE) was a Jewish uprising against the Seleucid Empire, led by the Maccabees, to resist forced Hellenization. It resulted in Jewish independence and is commemorated by Hanukkah.
How did Hellenization influence Jewish traditions?
Hellenization, or the spread of Greek culture, influenced Jewish language, philosophy, and practices, causing divisions between Jews who embraced Greek customs and those who resisted.
Who were the Pharisees, and what did they believe?
The Pharisees were a Jewish sect that emphasized oral tradition and strict adherence to the Torah. They believed in the afterlife and resurrection.
How did the Sadducees differ from the Pharisees?
The Sadducees were an aristocratic group that rejected oral traditions and only followed the written Torah. They denied the resurrection of the dead and had strong ties to the Temple.
What were the beliefs of the Essenes, and where did they live?
The Essenes were an ascetic sect that lived in isolated communities, like Qumran, and focused on purity, communal living, and apocalyptic beliefs.
Who were the Zealots, and what was their goal?
The Zealots were a militant Jewish group that sought to overthrow Roman rule in Judea. They played a key role in the Jewish Revolt of 66-73 CE
What is a Mitzvah, and how many are there in Jewish law?
A Mitzvah is a commandment from God. There are 613 mitzvot (commandments) in Jewish law, covering ethical and ritual obligations.
What are the basic rules of Kashrut (kosher laws)?
Kashrut includes dietary laws such as not mixing dairy and meat, only eating certain animals (e.g., no pork or shellfish), and humane slaughter methods.
How is Shabbat observed, and why is it important?
Shabbat (Friday evening to Saturday night) is a day of rest and worship. Work is prohibited, prayers are recited, and families gather for meals.
What is the Shema, and what does it signify?
The Shema is a central Jewish prayer affirming monotheism: “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is One.”
What are the core beliefs about God in Judaism?
Judaism is monotheistic, believing in one God who is eternal, omnipotent, and just. God made a covenant with the Jewish people and gave them His laws.
What are the key rituals associated with Jewish birth ceremonies?
Boys undergo Brit Milah (circumcision on the 8th day), and girls often receive a Simchat Bat (naming ceremony).
What is the purpose of a Bar/Bat Mitzvah?
It marks the coming of age at 13 (boys) and 12 (girls), signifying responsibility for following Jewish law.
What are the major elements of a Jewish wedding?
It includes the Ketubah (marriage contract), Chuppah (wedding canopy), breaking the glass, and blessings.
How is death and mourning observed in Judaism?
It includes Shiva (7-day mourning), Kaddish prayer, and burial within 24-48 hours.
What is the significance of Pesach (Passover)?
It commemorates the Exodus from Egypt, with a Seder meal and matzah (unleavened bread).
How is Hanukkah celebrated, and what historical event does it commemorate?
It marks the Maccabees’ victory and the miracle of oil lasting 8 days in the Temple. Candles are lit on the Menorah (Hanukkiah).
What are the customs of Rosh Hashanah?
It is the Jewish New Year, celebrated with prayers, shofar blowing, and eating symbolic foods like apples and honey.
Why is Yom Kippur considered the holiest day in Judaism?
It is the Day of Atonement, observed with fasting, prayer, and repentance.
What are the 10 Commandments, and where are they found?
The 10 Commandments are fundamental Jewish laws given to Moses on Mount Sinai, found in the Torah (Exodus 20, Deuteronomy 5).
What is the Torah, and how is it different from the Tanakh?
The Torah is the first five books of the Tanakh (Hebrew Bible), considered the most sacred text.
What books make up the Tanakh?
The Torah (Law), Nevi’im (Prophets), and Ketuvim (Writings).
What are the Kosher Laws, and where are they found in Jewish scripture?
Kosher laws are in Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14.
What is the significance of the 7-branch Menorah?
It was used in the ancient Temple and represents divine wisdom and light.
How does the 9-branch Menorah (Hanukkiah) differ from the 7-branch Menorah?
The Hanukkiah is used for Hanukkah and has an extra branch for the shamash (helper candle).
What does the Star of David symbolize?
Traditionally associated with King David, the biblical warrior who defeated Goliath
Represents Jewish identity, survival, and cultural pride throughout history
Became a symbol of Judaism in the Middle Ages and later used in Jewish communities worldwide
Featured on the flag of Israel, representing national unity and heritage
Has been used in both religious and political contexts, including during times of persecution (e.g., the Holocaust) and as a symbol of strength
Why is the Western/Wailing Wall important in Judaism?
It is the last remaining part of the Second Temple and a sacred place of prayer.
What are the main differences between Orthodox, Reform, and Conservative Judaism?
Orthodox strictly follows Jewish law, Reform is more flexible, and Conservative is in between.
What is Hasidism, and how does it differ from mainstream Orthodox Judaism?
Hasidism is a mystical branch of Orthodox Judaism focused on joy and spirituality.
What roles do women have in different Jewish denominations?
In Orthodox Judaism, women have traditional roles, while Reform and Conservative allow female Rabbis and equal participation.
What was the Holocaust, and how did it impact Judaism?
The Holocaust (Shoah) was the genocide of 6 million Jews during WWII, leading to a global Jewish resurgence and the creation of Israel.
What are the historical sources of Anti-Semitism?
Religious discrimination, economic myths, and political scapegoating.
What is Zionism, and how did it influence the creation of Israel?
Zionism is the movement for a Jewish homeland, leading to the establishment of Israel in 1948.
What are the key points of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict?
It involves territorial disputes, religious tensions, and political struggles between Jews and Palestinians over land and governance.
