: Judaism
Judaism is one of the oldest religions in the world, with a history that spans over 4,000 years. It is one of the three major monotheistic faiths, along with Christianity and Islam, and has had a major influence on the development of Western civilization.
Judaism is based on the belief in one God, who is the creator and sustainer of the universe. The main source of Jewish law and teachings is the Torah, which was revealed to Moses on Mount Sinai. The Torah is composed of the five books of Moses, known as the Pentateuch, and contains 613 commandments.
The history of Judaism is divided into three main periods: the Biblical period, the Rabbinic period, and the modern period. During the Biblical period, the Jewish people were led by Moses and the other prophets. During the Rabbinic period, which lasted from the 1st century CE to the 18th century CE, rabbis developed the Talmud and other commentaries on the Torah.
In the modern period, the Jewish people faced persecution and genocide during the Holocaust, and the founding of the State of Israel in 1948 marked the beginning of a new era for the Jewish people.
The practice of Judaism is based on the principles of justice, compassion, and respect for all people. Jews observe a variety of rituals, such as praying three times a day, lighting candles on the Sabbath, and fasting on Yom Kippur. Judaism also places a strong emphasis on learning, and Jews are encouraged to study the Torah and its commentaries.
Judaism has had an immense impact on the world, and its teachings and values continue to shape the lives of Jews and non-Jews alike. Through the ages, Judaism has been a source of strength, hope, and resilience in the face of adversity.