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.
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
Shabbat candle lighting times for Israel and US
Parashat Chukat: Red ashes, endless skies
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
See Shabbat times for your area.
Parashat Korah: ‘An elevated place in Gehenna’
What is repentance? It is a small, good thought filled with love – the kind of thought that saved the sons of Korah from a tragic fate; a moment of introspection that can save any Jew from harm.
Finding God in the foxhole? Netanyahu reveals spiritual side in midst of Iran war - analysis
Some critics say Netanyahu's religiousness is tactical. However, if Netanyahu wanted to use faith for political gain, he has had many opportunities to do so, but he never did.
Chalkida: The little Greek town that could – save its Jews
How joyous it is to find a town where our brethren have walked for 2,500 years and has been a safe haven in times of trouble.
The awakening of Am Yisrael: No more grasshoppers, but lions - opinion
We have the chance to show ourselves and the world that power can be transformed into moral influence, into the construction of a society rooted in human dignity, Torah values, and faith in God.
'From Eden to Exodus': Learning the meaning of Hebrew words - review
From Eden to Exodus incorporates 53 articles explaining the meanings of various words and phrases from the first two books of the Torah.
