Notes: Judeo-Christian Tradition

A.Judaism: The religion of the Hebrews.

1. Monotheism a.The Hebrews were the first people to believe in one God. b.God was perfect, all- knowing, all-powerful and eternal.

2. God’s wish for his people to live moral, righteous lives.

3. Believed human beings are created in the image of God a.This divine spark gave each person a dignity that can never be taken away. b.Each person given moral freedom and the ability to reason (choose between good and evil).

4. These beliefs led to a new emphasis on individual worth.

5. Jewish law teaches morality. a.Hebrew laws focused more on morality and ethics and less on political matters.

6. The prophets continued the faith. a.The prophets attacked war, oppression and greed. b.Strengthened belief that all people have the right to be treated with justice and dignity.

6. The prophets continued the faith. c. The prophets believed life on earth could be improved. d. Poverty and injustice need not be accepted. e. People could live by high moral standards.

B. Christianity

B. Christianity: Followers of Jesus Christ. 1.Jesus’ teaching followed in line with the prophet’s/Old Testament’s moral outlook. 2.Went even further, love of enemies. 3.Equality of all human beings. 4.Christians spread their beliefs to all people.

C. Judeo-Christian Tradition 1.The worth of the individual. 2.The duty of the individual and of the community to combat oppression. 3.Equality of people before God.

Shield: Individual Worth Who are you? What makes you unique? 1.Your Name “BIG” 2.At least FOUR images with multiple pictures: Family, History Teacher, Sports, Music, Values, Politics 3.Label and Explain images. Each of your images must include one sentence. 4.In one of the corners: Name, Class, Period, Date