Judaism
Judaism is the oldest monotheistic religion in the world, having originated in the Middle East more than 3,000 years ago with patriarch Abraham.
As the first Abrahamic religion, Judaism has played a major role in shaping the history of the world, having greatly influenced the development of Christianity and Islam, despite having always had a relatively small amount of adherents by comparison.
The religion itself is built off of the "written Torah" of the Bible, known in Judaism as the Tanach, and the "oral Torah" of the Mishna, Talmud and other great works of leading rabbis throughout history.
Judaism itself has no single leading figure, and is divided into multiple streams, such as the ultra-Orthodox (haredi), Orthodox, Conservative and Reform. Further differences also exist along the lines of historic Diasporic communities, such as Ashkenazi and Sephardi Jewry.
Today, the largest concentration of adherents of Judaism can be found in Israel, with the US having the second-largest.
Shabbat candle lighting times for Israel and US
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Parashat Balak: Others’ privacy is sacrosanct
A New Zionist Home for a New Zionist Conversation - opinion
'The Life of the Soul': A look at Judaism's view on 'gilgul' and reincarnation - review
17th of Tammuz: A time of mourning and fasting
The minor fast on the 17th of Tammuz lasts just from sunrise to sunset. Only eating and drinking are prohibited.
Jewish ethical dilemma: What does Halacha say about coercing medical treatment?
In respecting a competent patient’s wishes, rabbis have upheld that choice in such cases reflects not a disregard for life but a sober recognition that the obligation to prolong life has limits.
Parashat Chukat: Simple faith
Faith – even when things don’t make sense. Faith – even when life is hard. Even when we have questions, we will always remain steadfast in our beliefs.
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Parashat Chukat: Red ashes, endless skies
The war with Iran was something else entirely. It was swift. It was decisive. It was beyond imagination. It felt branded by God Himself.
In a first for Conservative Judaism, synagogue allows clergy to participate in interfaith weddings
Such weddings would take place outside the synagogue and be officiated by someone who is not clergy, such as a friend, relative, or judge.
Huckabee thanks God at Western Wall for 'miracles granted' to Israel during Iran war
US Ambassador Mike Huckabee visited the Western Wall to thank God for the "miracles granted" during Operation Rising Lion.
A Jew is never stuck: Embracing resilience in times of crisis - opinion
Beyond the Headlines: A weekly glimpse into the Israel you won’t read about in the news
'Judaism: A love story': The latest book by Rabbi Shlomo Riskin - review
This is a book that will open readers’ hearts and minds to Rabbi Riskin’s vision of Judaism, not just as a religion but as a profound and enduring love story.
'Above All, We Are Jews': The life story of a great American Reform rabbi - review
To learn more about this great American Reform rabbi, Jews and non-Jews alike will want to read this well-researched and highly accessible biography.
Shabbat candle lighting times for Israel and US
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