Some of the key beliefs of Judaism include:
- Monotheism: Judaism is strictly monotheistic, believing in one indivisible, non-physical God who created and governs the universe. This belief is encapsulated in the Shema prayer: "Hear, O Israel: The LORD is our God; the LORD is one"
- The Torah: Jews believe the Torah, the first five books of the Hebrew Bible given to Moses at Mount Sinai, is divinely revealed and immutable. It contains God's laws and teachings that guide Jewish life and ethics
- God’s Nature: God is eternal, incorporeal (without physical form), and unique, unlike any other being. God is the sole object of worship and prayer
- Prophecy: God communicates with humanity through prophets, with Moses regarded as the greatest prophet who received the Torah
- Ethical Living and Social Justice: Judaism emphasizes living a moral life, pursuing justice, and performing acts of kindness. Rituals serve to embody ethical principles rather than replace them
- Covenant: Jews believe in a special covenant between God and the Jewish people, beginning with Abraham and reaffirmed through Moses, which entails following God's commandments
- Messianic Belief: There is a belief in the coming of a Messiah who will bring redemption and a future era of peace. Jews also believe in the resurrection of the dead at a time designated by God
- Reward and Punishment: God is aware of all human deeds and thoughts and rewards those who obey His commandments while punishing transgressors
- Human Dignity: Judaism teaches that all humans are created in the divine image, possessing a "Divine Spark," which links them to God and calls for respect and moral responsibility
These beliefs are summarized in Maimonides' 13 Principles of Faith, a widely accepted formulation of Jewish doctrine, though Judaism allows for a range of interpretations and has no single centralized dogma
. In summary, Judaism centers on the belief in one God, the divine origin and authority of the Torah, ethical conduct, the covenant with God, and hope for future redemption through the Messiah. These beliefs shape Jewish identity, law, and practice.
