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why is judaism a historic religion
historic events have determined the birth, the development and the basic beliefs of the jewish religion
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the first jew, founder
abraham
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the central historical event in judaism
- Exodus event
- -Mose, led escape from slavery in egypt
- -into Sinai Desert
- -God made convenant with people of israel
- -shows the type of things god does and wants to do for us
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Creeds
the most distinctive belief in judaism
God is a god of history
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Creed
what does it mean to say God is a God of history
- -God is active within history
- -God is immanent, not just transcendant
- -truly present in and part of what is going on in the world
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Creed
god of justice
- -God wants to bring forth a world of greater justice
- -doesnt tolerate injustice
- -believe in a better future because god did not just create the world and leave it. yahweh is still active in it
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Code
10 commandments
- first 3: deal with God
- -honor God, respect Gods name, keep the sabbath
- Last 7: call for love and justice toward our neighbor
- -respect parents, don't kill or commit adultuery, or steal, or lie, or resent your neighbors good fortunes
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Code
why do jews believe the last 7 commandments emphasize love and respect for neighbor
- -God also depends on us to bring about better future
- -we are Co-creators in moving history forward toward the Reign of God (a world of love / justice among all people)
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Code
why is judaism considered a religion of law and obedience
- -the torah is center of religion
- -emphasize the law because actions are more important than words and beliefs
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Ceremony
Sabbath / Shabat
-God rested from work of creation on the 7th day
-jews rest weekly from friday sundown to saturday sundown to reflect on what God has done for them and what they will do for God
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Ceremony
where does ceremony take place and why
- home
- -religioin focuses on family and then extends to the wider world
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contribution to global responsibility
(2)
optimism and hope - we can rely on god
human responsiblity - God is relying on us
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why do jews believe in hope, that things can be turned around
- 1. Creation
- god said creation is good, believe the world is good, good can be rescued from the worst of evil
- 2. Yahweh (God) continues to act in history
- we can find strength, wisdom, courage in God
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human responsiblity
- God is relying on us
- it is our duty to obey the law and contribute to a beautiful world
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