Multi-cultural Britain Judaism
Judaism: An Overview Race Religion Oldest monotheistic religion in the world
Judaism: Beliefs and Traditions One God God’s people – the Covenant Law – 613 mitzvot Purity – spiritual, physical Awaiting the Messiah
Jews in the UK today 300,000 Jews in the UK Third largest belief group Two thirds live in/around London Many famous Jews in society:
Jews in the UK 1070 – William the Conqueror 1290 – Jews expelled from the UK 1656 – Jews allowed to return 1846 – Jews no longer had to wear special clothes 2006 – Jews celebrated 350 year anniversary of Jewish community in Britain
Jews in Penzance 1720s – Industrial Revolution brought Jewish families to Penzance Jewish cemetery Synagogue in use until 1913 Jews today – numbers on the rise
How has Judaism shaped our society? Laws Diet Rights Scientific advances Entertainment
Challenges of modern Britain Increased anti-Semitism in recent years Lack of understanding/education Rise of extremist groups Anti-religious culture
Yom Kippur Holiest day for Jews Wednesday 26th September 25 hours of purity Seeking atonement and forgiveness of sins A day of prayer, fasting and charity
What can we learn? A week of reflection Had an argument? Made a mistake? Caused unhappiness? A chance to make up for it and be forgiven?