1. The first great monotheistic religion
Judaism
The first great monotheistic religion
What does monotheistic mean?
Belief in ONE GOD

2. The Beginnings of Judaism
Jews believe…
Abraham was “called” by Yahweh (God) from his native Mesopotamia (now northern Iraq) to the land of the Canaanites (now Israel/Palestine)
God asked Abraham to live a life faithful to God
In return, God made a promise, or covenant, to make him and
his people a “great nation”
with a permanent home on
that land.

3. Modern Issues
Historically, Jews have been persecuted (mistreated) and forced from one country to another with no place they could call their permanent home.
The establishment of modern Israel (seen by Jews as fulfillment of God’s promise) has not been welcomed by Arabs in the region.
The Middle East is locked in a cycle of violence and revenge among various groups.

4. Facts on Judaism
Sacred text (book)
Torah
Place of worship
Synagogue

5. Facts on Judaism Spiritual leader Denominations (divisions)
Rabbi
Denominations (divisions)
Orthodox, Conservative, Reform
Hanukkah, Passover, Rosh Hashanah

6. Major Beliefs One true God is present everywhere
God made a covenant with Abraham
God chose the Hebrews as his people
God gave the Hebrews the Ten Commandments through Moses
The Torah is a sacred recording of laws and events in Jewish history
Prophets taught about moral standards and justice