Judaism paper Research Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Judaism - Research Paper Example Certain varieties of Judaism consider the idea that all Jewish teachings must strictly be adhered to (Wylen, 2000). Although, there are other forms of Judaism that believe teachings that encourage on how to usher a morality in human lives are obligatory, much less, essential; others can be considered as discretionary or optional. For the reason that Judaism is an assorted religion with an extensive range of beliefs and practices, it must not be presupposed that a Jew has certain types of beliefs or follows precise forms of religious practice (Eisenberg, 2004). Various types of Judaism are linked by an intense impression of "peoplehood" (ICS, 2013), a shared inheritance, tradition or custom, and collective values and standards. Judaism gives Jews with guidance on how to carry out their religion and inspire good values (ICS, 2013). These instructions descend from numerous bases that include Jewish sacred texts such as the Bible and the Talmud (ICS, 2013). Other Jewish texts such as the subsequent literary works written by rabbis and philosophers are also being used. Judaism is one of the most important religions that are still being practiced today. Thus, it sensibly important to dig in deeper to its historical derivations, and the significant figures, observance, teachings, and events that can be relatively associated with it. This paper shall elaborate on these categories, which should provide readers a general overview of Judaism. Judaism and Abraham One of the fundamental teachings of Judaism is the belief that there is only one God, a belief that is also known as ethical monotheism (Wylen 2000; ICS, 2013). Judaism teaches that there is a lone God who created the universe and everything that is in it; a Supreme Being who cherishes and tends humanity; a God who desires that His people will live ethical lives (ICS, 2013), which makes it a strong cause that having a profound understanding of Judaism is crucial in appreciating the historical lineage of the world. The Old Testament confirms that Abraham started off monotheism or the belief in one God, and was the first person to refuse idol worship. Abraham is a fundamental component of Judaism in that he was considered to be the Father of the Jewish people and that it was through him and his offspring that a covenant was handed on to succeeding generations (Pellach, 2006). The Abrahamic Covenant, which can be found in Genesis 12-17, elaborates three main issues: (1) God would bestow Abraham the Land of Canaan and make him the father of all nations and of his progenies; (2) God would create a great nation through him; and (3) God would yield a blessing to those who consecrate him and curse those who curse him. In Genesis 12:3 God says, â€Å"I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you; and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed† (New International Version). Abrahams covenant is particularly important because it serves as the source to the Bible and world history (Pellach, 2006). The basis of almost all Christian teachings is rooted on the belief that God has a chosen people, which will reveal themselves in the last days of the earth. Although, some people in various civilization and cultures believe that the covenant no longer applies today, the Bible reaffirms that Abrahamic covenant is still in effect. The Bible says, â€Å"He [God] remembers his covenant forever, the word which he commanded,