Judaism The word "Judaism", as with the word "Jew", comes from one of the pre-eminent tribes of the nation of Israel, Judah. The nation of Israel is not simply a geographical term, but also a political and religious term. In fact, the word "Israel" means "he struggles with God". In other words, Judaism is for people who believe that the one true God is Yahweh, revealed in the Old Testament writings. Judaism differs from Christianity mainly because Jews are still waiting for a promised Messiah (anointed one), whereas Christians believe that Jesus of Nazareth was that promised Messiah. Below are some of the fundamentals of Judaism. Judaism: How Did We Get Here? God created the universe and all within on the first 5 days of creation. God created Adam and Eve on the 6th day of creation. He pronounced His creation "very good". Back | Top | Next Spiritual Path   Judaism: What is the Purpose of Life? The purpose of life is to act responsibly towards God, the community and oneself, and to make good ethical choices. Tied in with this are the responsibilities to pass the traditions and celebrations of Judaism down through the generations. Back | Top | Next Spiritual Path   Judaism: Who/What is God? There is one true God, revealed as the eternal "I am". In fact, devout Jews will neither say the name Yahweh, nor write it in full. One of the best descriptions of God is found in the book of Psalms. Yahweh is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. He will not always accuse, nor will He harbour His anger forever, He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. Back | Top | Next Spiritual Path   Judaism: Who Are Humans? Each person is an individual, special creation of God, fearfully and wonderfully made by Him. Humans are to live in the world God created, exercise free will, and co-operate with God's guidance. Back | Top | Next Spiritual Path   Judaism: What is Sin? In Judaism, sin is not following the teachings, precepts, and laws set down in the Old Testament, and particularly, the Torah. The Torah is the collection of the first 5 books, containing Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy. However, various groups of Judaism invented new laws, in an attempt to completely regulate the conduct of people. These extra laws are not part of the Old Testament. God is primarily looking for people whose hearts are seeking after Him. Back | Top | Next Spiritual Path   Judaism: How Do You Explain Pain and Suffering? Following the sin of Adam and Eve, humans have a tendency towards evil, as well as towards good. Evil results from the choice to do wrong, and to satisfy personal needs ahead of the needs of others. It is unknown why God allows the "innocent" to suffer, but some Jews believe that suffering results from sins earlier in life. The focus is more on knowing that God will punish those who do evil. Back | Top | Next Spiritual Path   Judaism: Has God Communicated with Us? How? God has communicated with humans through the prophets and others, who contributed to the Old Testament. All that is needed for life is found in this series of books. Back | Top | Next Spiritual Path   Judaism: How Do You Find God? You find God by seeking Him. God has promised in the Old Testament, that if anyone truly searches for Him, He will let Himself be found by that person. Back | Top | Next Spiritual Path   Judaism: What Happens When You Die? There is very little said in Judaism about the afterlife. The concept is vague, as the focus is far more on this life. Jews are looking for a time when the promised Messiah will come, to usher in an age of paradise. They believe that even if they have died, they will be raised again when this paradise arrives. Back | Top | Next Spiritual Path