Just Judaism Stuff

Question 1

Judaism

Answer 1

The synagogue, center for Jewish worship, has three main features: house of prayer, study, and assembly. It symbolizes God’s eternal presence.

Question 2

Synagogue Features

Answer 2

Includes Aron Hakodesh (Ark), Torah scrolls, Ner Tamid (Eternal Lamp), and Bimah. No representations of God, separate seating for men and women.

Question 3

Artefacts

Answer 3

Sefer Torah copies, Shabbat candles, Challah (plaited bread), Kiddush cup, Mikvah, Mezuzah.

Question 4

Ritual Dress

Answer 4

Kippah (skull cap), Tallit (prayer shawl), Tefillin (reminder of serving God with compassion).

Question 5

Public/Communal Worship

Answer 5

Minyan rule (10 men), prayer fulfills the Covenant with Abraham, essential duty reaffirmed in the 10 commandments. Main prayers include Shema, Amidah, Kaddish, Aleinu.

Question 6

Worship at Home

Answer 6

Modeh Ani morning prayers, Shema recited twice daily, Mezuzah symbolizes God’s presence, Siddur guides prayers.

Question 7

Shabbat Celebrations

Answer 7

Synagogue service includes main prayers. At home, lighting candles, meal with Challah, Kiddush prayer, Havdalah candle to end Shabbat.

Question 8

Leaders in Synagogue

Answer 8

Rabbi teaches Torah, Chazan leads worship through song.

Question 9

Beliefs and Scriptures

Answer 9

Monotheistic, belief in one God. God created the world, revealed rules, and judges human actions. Two main covenants: Moses and Abraham.

Question 10

Covenants

Answer 10

Abraham promised land, descendants, and blessings. Circumcision symbolizes dedication. Moses received Torah with 613 mitzvot.

Question 11

Beliefs about Torah

Answer 11

Source of authority, moral principles, positive/negative mitzvot. Torah as a judge of life.

Question 12

Sacred Places

Answer 12

Pilgrimage importance for spiritual enrichment, forgiveness, and connection with heritage. Western Wall and Yad Vashem significant.

Question 13

Memory of the Temple

Answer 13

Western Wall, Holy Ark, Ner Tamid, daily prayers follow temple worship themes.

Question 14

Festivals and Fasts

Answer 14

Rosh Hashanah (New Year), Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement), Pesach (Passover), Sukkot, Shavuot, Simchat Torah. Changes to traditions may occur.

Question 15

Rites of Passage

Answer 15

Birth rites include Brit Milah (circumcision) and naming ceremony. Coming of age with Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Marriage involves Kiddushin and Chuppah. Funeral rites emphasize respect and remembrance.

Question 16

Kashrut and Trefah

Answer 16

Observing dietary laws (Kosher) signifies Jewish identity. Apology for accidentally consuming Trefah.

Question 17

Family Life

Answer 17

Traditional roles with men in religious leadership and women managing the home. Emphasis on education, respect for elders, and resistance to divorce.

Question 18

Tradition and Change

Answer 18

Balance between traditional roles for stability and potential conflicts with modern values.

Question 19

Religion and Social Action

Answer 19

Tzedakah, Gemilut Hasadim, and commitment to social justice demonstrate care for others. Stewardship of the environment, “Tikkun olam,” reflects responsibility for Earth. Organizations like Tzedek, Jewish Care, and World Jewish Relief alleviate poverty.

Question 20

Extra Information

Answer 20

Tanakh comprises Nevi’im, Ketuvim, and Torah. Talmud includes Mishnah (oral Torah) and Gemara (commentary).