What Is Judaism and How Did It Begin?
Judaism is one of the oldest monotheistic religions in the world, with a history that spans more than 3,500 years. It is the religious, cultural, and ethical tradition of the Jewish people. At its core, Judaism is based on the belief in one God who created the universe and established a special covenant with the people of Israel. Unlike many religions that focus mainly on belief, Judaism places strong emphasis on law, ethics, and daily practice.
The Meaning of Judaism
The word Judaism comes from Judah, one of the twelve tribes of Israel and the name of an ancient kingdom. Followers of Judaism are called Jews, and their identity is both religious and cultural. Judaism is not only about worship; it also guides moral behavior, social justice, family life, and personal responsibility.
Judaism teaches that life itself is sacred and that humans have a duty to improve the world. This concept is often expressed through the idea of “Tikkun Olam”, meaning “repairing the world” through righteous actions.
The Origins of Judaism
The beginning of Judaism is traditionally traced back to Abraham, who is considered the first patriarch of the Jewish people. According to Jewish belief, around 1800 BCE, God made a covenant with Abraham, promising that his descendants would become a great nation if they remained faithful to God. This covenant marked the foundation of Jewish faith and identity.
Abraham’s descendants—Isaac, Jacob, and Jacob’s twelve sons—formed the early tribes of Israel. Over time, these tribes migrated to Egypt, where they eventually became enslaved. This period of suffering plays a crucial role in Jewish history.
Moses and the Birth of Jewish Law
A defining moment in Judaism occurred with Moses in the 13th century BCE. According to tradition, God freed the Israelites from slavery in Egypt through Moses, an event known as the Exodus. After their escape, the Israelites traveled to Mount Sinai, where Moses received the Torah, including the Ten Commandments.
The Torah is the central sacred text of Judaism. It contains laws, moral teachings, and narratives that guide Jewish life. This moment transformed Judaism from a family-based belief into a structured religious system with laws and commandments.
Core Beliefs of Judaism
Judaism is strictly monotheistic, believing in one, indivisible God who is eternal and just. Some key beliefs include:
God is the creator and ruler of the universe
Humans have free will and moral responsibility
Ethical living is more important than ritual alone
Justice, compassion, and mercy are divine values
Unlike some religions, Judaism does not emphasize the afterlife heavily. Instead, it focuses on living a righteous life in this world.
Sacred Texts in Judaism
The most important Jewish text is the Torah, which consists of the first five books of the Hebrew Bible. Along with the Torah, Jewish tradition also includes:
Tanakh: The complete Hebrew Bible
Talmud: A vast collection of rabbinic discussions interpreting Jewish law
These texts are studied deeply and debated, reflecting Judaism’s strong intellectual tradition.
Judaism Through History
After the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem in 70 CE, Judaism evolved significantly. Without a central temple, Jewish life shifted toward synagogues, community study, and prayer. Rabbis became spiritual leaders, and Jewish law adapted to life in different regions.
Over centuries, Judaism developed several major branches, including Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform Judaism, each interpreting Jewish law and tradition differently while sharing common roots.
The Global Influence of Judaism
Though Judaism has a relatively small number of followers compared to other world religions, its influence is immense. Judaism laid the foundation for Christianity and Islam, both of which share many prophets and ethical teachings with it.
Today, Judaism continues to thrive worldwide, balancing ancient traditions with modern life while maintaining its core values of faith, ethics, and community.
Judaism is far more than an ancient religion—it is a living tradition that has survived thousands of years of change and challenge. Rooted in faith, law, and ethical responsibility, Judaism began with a covenant and evolved into a rich spiritual and cultural heritage. Its enduring message is clear: faith in one God, commitment to justice, and responsibility toward humanity and the world.
~Religion World Bureau
