Related Terms • Jew • Torah

Definition:
The term Judaism comes from the Greek Ioudaismos, which was a label created by Greek-speaking Jews to differentiate their religious belief from their pagan Greek neighbors.

Judaism is monotheistic, which means that Jews believe that just a single god exists. Evidence suggests that the early Jews were monolatrous, which means that they followed a single god, but accept that other gods exist. Characteristics of this god include: creator of the universe, omnipotent, omniscient and omnipresent. Jews also believe that they, as a people, are specially chosen by God to keep his commandments.

Judaism is a revealed religion, which means that its tenets have been "revealed" to humans through communication with the supernatural. Judaism has also been described as an ethical religion, in that ethical rules constitute an important focal point of belief and practice. Rabbi Hillel was once asked if he could explain the Torah while standing on one foot, and Hillel is reported to have said: "What is hateful to you, don't do unto your neighbor. The rest is commentary. Now, go and study."

Also Known As: none

Alternate Spellings: none

Common Misspellings: none

Related Resources:

What is Theism?
What is the difference between monotheism and monolatry? Between pantheism and panentheism? How about between animism and shamanism? Or theism and deism? What the heck is henotheism? For that matter, what is and is not a religion?

What is Religion?
A system of human beliefs, ideals and practices which is harder to define than it may at first appear.