Judaism | Judaism types

 ü Judaism Definition 

A monotheistic, Abrahamic religion, Judaism (Hebrew: Yahădt) is the collective religious, cultural, and legal tradition and civilisation of the Jewish people. Its origins as a formal religion may be traced back to the Bronze Age in the Middle East. Yahwism, the faith of ancient Israel and Judah, gave rise to modern Judaism by the late 6th century BCE, making it one of the oldest monotheistic religions. Religious Jews believe that Judaism is a reflection of the covenant that God made with their ancestors, the Israelites. It includes a vast array of scriptures, customs, theological stances, and organisational styles.

 

ü   Symbols

 

• Star of David

The Star of David is a representation of both the Jewish people as a whole and of Judaism as a religion. It is also believed to be King David's shield, or at least his insignia.

Jewish legend connects the emblem to King Solomon's "Seal of Solomon," a mystical signet ring he used to command demons and spirits. Jewish legend also connects the sign to a magical shield that King David had and used to defend himself from foes. The Star of David became the emblem of Jewish communities after their freedom during the French Revolution. The Israeli flag has a star.

• Shin

Shin can also refer to the name of God, Shaddai. As he utters the Priestly Blessing, a kohen (priest) makes the letter Shin with his hands.

 

• Hamsa

This representation of a single hand is known by a variety of titles, including Hand of Miriam, Hand of Fatima, and Hamsa (from the Arabic word for "five"). Since the Middle Ages, Hamsas have gained popularity throughout the Arab world. Despite being traditionally associated with Muslims, hamsas have also been embraced by Sephardi Jewish communities and are now a well-known emblem among Jews and other people all over the world. Today, some hamsas have images of eyes to fend against the "evil eye." Some claim that hamsas are lucky charms or "evil eye" protectors. The Torah warns us against trusting in fortunate charms or omens and stresses that we should put our confidence in God instead, therefore this is not a Jewish worldview.

 

• Chai

Hebrew for "life" is chai. This inspiring statement, which affirms one of the most crucial principles of the Jewish faith: protecting and honouring the life, is frequently featured in Jewish jewellery and other Judaica items. L'Chaim, which means "to life!" is a customary Jewish toast.

The word "chai," which is written with the Hebrew characters chet and yud, has the numerical value of 18 (chet = 8 and yud = 10). Jews frequently offer presents or make charitable contributions in multiples of 18 as a result.

 

ü Types of Judaism:

 

Orthodox Judaism:

Jews who identify as Orthodox are renowned for their stringent adherence to Jewish law and traditions. For instance, most people agree that working, driving, or managing money shouldn't be done on Shabbat.

Hasidic Jews are one of the many sects that make up the varied religious movement known as Orthodox Judaism. This branch of Judaism originated in Eastern Europe in the 18th century and adheres to principles other than those of conventional or ultra-Orthodox Judaism. The mystical encounter with God that entails intimate contact via prayer and worship is emphasised by Hasidic Jews. A well-known Hasidic, Orthodox Jewish movement is Chabad.

 

Reform Judaism:

Reform Judaism is seen as a liberal branch of religion that places a higher priority on ethical practices than on the rigorous following of Jewish law. Followers encourage adaptability and forward-thinking ideas. The majority of Jews in the United States practise Reform Judaism.

 

Conservative Judaism:

This branch of Judaism is frequently regarded as falling midway between Orthodox and Reform Judaism. Conservative Jews often respect Jewish tradition while allowing for some modernisation.

  

Reconstructionist Judaism:

The Society for the Advancement of Judaism was established by Mordecai Kaplan in 1922, which is when reconstructionism first emerged. This group thinks that Judaism is a continuously developing religious civilisation.

 

Humanistic Judaism:

In 1963, Rabbi Sherwin Wine established this branch of Judaism. Humanistic Jews honour Jewish tradition and history without placing a strong focus on God.