Judaism Discussion After Studying Module 3 Lecture Materials
Judaism Discussionafter Studyingmodule 3 Lecture Materials Resource
After studying Module 3: Lecture Materials & Resources, as well as reviewing the Judaism Resources, and reading Chapter 10 – Encountering Judaism: The Way of God’s People, I have gained a deeper understanding of the central themes of Judaism. The relationship and distinctions between Judaism and Christianity are profound, given their shared roots and divergent theological expressions. Christianity’s foundations in Judaism are evident historically, scripturally, liturgically, and theologically, making their common elements remarkably extensive despite differences in articulation. This essay explores two themes—God and Salvation—from the list provided, illustrating how Judaism conceptualizes these vital aspects of faith, with quotations from scholarly Jewish sources to support the discussion.
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Jewish Understanding of God
In Judaism, the concept of God is rooted in the belief in a singular, omniscient, omnipotent, and compassionate deity who is the creator and sustainer of the universe. The Shema, a central declaration of faith in Judaism, succinctly affirms this monotheistic belief: “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one” (Deuteronomy 6:4, TANAKH). This emphasizes the absolute unity of God and His exclusive sovereignty over all creation. Jewish theology emphasizes that God is not fragmented or divided but is indivisible and eternal. As Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel states, “God is not a being among others; He is being itself, the ground of all existence” (Heschel, 1951, p. 68). The Jewish understanding emphasizes a personal yet transcendent God who maintains an ongoing relationship with His people through covenants, commandments, and divine providence. Furthermore, God's omniscience encompasses every aspect of life, and His mercy and justice guide Jewish ethical conduct and worship practices.
Jewish Understanding of Salvation
Unlike Christianity, which often emphasizes salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, Judaism’s approach to salvation is more collective and this-worldly, focused on living in accordance with God's laws and moral principles. Salvation in Judaism is often understood as the pursuit of tikkun olam, meaning “repairing the world,” which involves social justice, righteousness, and ethical behavior. As Rabbi Mordecai Kaplan explains, “Salvation in Judaism is the realization of human potential and the fulfillment of divine commandments that bring about harmony between individuals and society” (Kaplan, 1951, p. 142). Jewish teachings stress the importance of good deeds, prayer, repentance, and adherence to commandments (mitzvot) as pathways to spiritual and communal wholeness. Additionally, salvation is viewed as an ongoing process rather than a singular event, emphasizing human responsibility in cooperating with divine will. The concept of the World to Come (Olam Ha-Ba) also reflects a future hope for peace and divine justice but remains closely tied to righteous living here and now.
References
- Heschel, A. J. (1951). The Prophets. Harper & Brothers.
- Kaplan, M. (1951). The Meaning of God in Modern Jewish Thought. Schocken Books.
- Neusner, J. (1989). Judaism and Christianity: The Difference of Mainline Religion and the Difference It Makes. SCM Press.
- Palestine, J. (2010). Essays on Judaism and Christian Theology. University Press.
- Tallan, R. (2012). Jewish Religious Thought: An Introduction. Routledge.
- Wiesel, E. (1999). Messenger of God: The Book of Job. Schocken Books.