Ancient Hebrews & Judaism Notes

Background Info Abraham was born in the City-State Ur (in Sumer). He was the 1st to believe in only one God (monotheism) Judaism Birthplace: Canaan – which was modern day Israel Mono=one Poly = Many Theism = god/gods Hebrews (& Jews today) use the LUNISOLAR calendar – using the Sun & the Moon (similar to the Babylonians Current Year 2016 = 5777

Background Continued The Hebrews used a holy book called a Torah It was written in Hebrew (language that was sacred & written right to left) The Torah was written on scrolls The Torah is made up of the First 5 books (old Testament) and the Hebrews believe Moses recorded these books

Background Continued The Five books are: Genesis Exodus Leviticus Numbers Deuteronomy

Background Continued A Jewish House of Worship is called a Synagogue or Temple Prayer services are held on Friday (Usually Friday Night) But Saturday is usually the main day of Worship Prayer Services are led by a RABBI Jerusalem is considered a holy place Jews do not eat Pork Jews fast during specific holidays (ex. Yon Kippur) Hebrews were persecuted by the Romans & Egyptians

Judaism There are 4 branches of Judaism 1.  Orthodox 2. Conservative, 3. Reform 4. Reconstructionist Ancient Practices still followed today: 1. Follow the 10 commandments (there were originally 613 commandments that dealt with many things including dietary laws & clothing requirements, but these are only followed by certain branches of Judaism & not all) 2. Observe Holidays (Rosh Hashanah –New Year, Yom Kippur-Day of Atonement, Passover-Exodus from Egyptian Slavery, Hanukkah-Victorious Rebellion led by Judah Maccabee) 3. Coming of Age ceremonies at age 13 when teen becomes a religious adult (Bar Mitzvah / Bat Mitzvah)

10 Commandments The Bible describes as having been given to the Israelites by God at biblical Mount Sinai. They are guidelines on how to live your life Laws applied equally to Jewish kings as well as all of their subjects Punishments not as harsh as others (Hammurabi) due to risk of angering God & losing God’s protection They are more focused on religion and morals rather than civic behavior Inspired by the word of God Dealt with right / Wrong Behavior Applied to everybody Equally Used by Jews and Christians

Other facts Jews do not believe in Angels They do not think that their life is predetermined by God (Predestination) They do not believe that they are judged at death --- They think you judged throughout life