Judaism

Judaism is an ancient monotheistic religion originating from the Levantine region of the Middle East. Judaism, along with Christianity and Islam, are some of the Abrahamic religions that trace their origins back to the covenant God made with Abraham in the Hebrew Bible. The core beliefs of Judaism center around a single omniscient and omnipotent deity known as Yahweh or Adonai (Hebrew for “the Lord”).

The Jewish holy text is known as Tanakh which consists of three parts: Torah (Law/Instruction), Nevi’im (Prophets) and Ketuvim (Writings). Jews believe that these books contain divine commandments given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai during his revelation at Sinai which includes 613 mitzvoth – religious obligations such as prayer, charity work, Sabbath observance etc., all binding upon every Jew regardless of gender or social status. In addition to this there are also many rabbinical laws derived from various sources throughout history including Talmud Bavli & Yerushalmi; Midrash Rabbah; Shulchan Aruch; Responsa literature etc.. These laws were created over centuries by learned scholars who sought ways to interpret scripture into practical applications for everyday life.

Over time different branches have developed within Judaism – Orthodoxy, Conservative & Reform being among them – each expressing its own interpretation regarding how best one should live according to Jewish law while adapting it into modern times through varying degrees based on individual values and preferences . Throughout its long history , Jews have faced persecution due primarily due anti-Semitism however they remain united under a common faith despite geographic dispersion across Europe , Asia , Africa & Americas . This has been further strengthened since 1948 when Israel was established creating a homeland where people could practice freely without fear discrimination or violence . Today there exists approximately 14 million followers worldwide comprising 0.2 % global population but having great influence in culture art politics economics science technology medicine philanthropy food manufacturing fashion media music entertainment sports finance banking education philosophy theology psychology sociology anthropology linguistics genetics …etc…

Today most movements recognize four practices required for conversion : circumcision ; immersion in Mikveh ; acceptance repentance before 3 male witnesses; reading aloud declaration renouncing other faiths accepting sovereignty Lord obligating keep His commandments…etc…. Thereafter convert will be considered full member community legally obligated follow same duties rights responsibilities any born Jew thus forming basis brotherhood sisterhood knit together tightly even if living worlds apart communities often sharing similar customs traditions beliefs foods holidays celebrations lifestyle rituals…