Orthodox Judaism

Core Beliefs

• Orthodox Jews believe that the Torah is the workings of Hashem (God) and that it was
given to the Jewish people on the Mount Sinai. Over time it is believed that Hashem had
chosen the Jews as His chosen country. This has been a main source of Jewish beliefs for
3,300 years.
• Judaism's beliefs in the afterlife play an important role in an Orthodox Jew's life. The
belief that people will be praised or punished for any conduct on earth by humans in the
future is one of the main religious values of Judaism.
Core Beliefs

• Orthodox Jews believe that when someone dies, it is not the end of their life but rather
it is the start of a better more fulfilling life. The loved ones of the deceased will still
mourn and grieve over their passing, they will be able to find comfort in knowing that
their loved one is with God in a much better place. In Orthodox Judaism, there are very
strict laws when it comes to the someone dying, such as, the body must be honored.
Vandalizing or dishonoring of a grave is strictly forbidden.
• In orthodox Judaism, Jesus is not believed in. They believe that there is only one God
(Hashem) and his works are far beyond what the human brain can imagine. The Messiah
has not arrived yet accorded to the Jews. Jesus does not have any role in Orthodox
Judaism. As a matter of fact, all the "Jews for Jesus“ protests have offended many
Orthodox Jews and have made many attempts to stop the movement.
Misunderstandings Christians have about Jews

• One common misconception that Christians have about Orthodox Jews is that they can
understand Judaism By simply reading the old testament. It is true that aspects and
stories of Judaism can be seen in the old testament. But with its temple, its priestly
service, its reliance on animal sacrifice, its emphasis on ritual purity, its extreme
punishments, when it comes to Biblical Judaism. However, this is not the Judaism that is
practiced today.
• Another misconception is that all Jews believe in God and are all extremely religious.
When most Jews believe that they are of a family that includes faith in God, responding
to the revelation of God at Sinai, and the compelling word of God calling them to a life
of righteousness, holiness, purity, and justice.
Misunderstandings Jews have about Christians

• A lot of Jews have made the misconception that, Jesus was a Jewish man who was
declared to be God after his death. The entire megillah is nonsense that no rational
person could possibly believe, like the virgin birth, walking on water, resurrection from
the dead, ascending into heaven.
• Some even believe that Christianity is more a pagan religion: while they have the "Old
Testament," all the rules have been discarded; rather than acknowledging that God is
"One," they are praise and worship three gods, a Father, a Son, and a Holy Spirit, but
many worship the Virgin Mary. Also, since they worship statues and sculptures, they are
idolaters.
How learning about Judaism can help some
misconceptions
• First off, it is good to study different religions other than your own, to see people’s
different thoughts, views, and beliefs, and help broaden your perspective on religion.
• Studying Judaism can help us better understand the bible. “The Bible, was written based
on Hebrew culture, language, and world view, and Christian's view life based on a
Western mindset and world view in America” (Booker, D. 2019) We now have a Middle
Eastern book that we are hoping to understand from our society in the West. The
Western point of view can easily lead us to misinterpret the Bible.
References

• Corduan, W. (2012). Neighboring faiths: A Christian introduction to world religions (2nd

ed.). IVP Academic. ISBN-13: 9780830839704
http://gcumedia.com/digital-resources/intervarsity-press/2012/neighboring-faiths_a-
christian-introduction-to-world-religions_ebook_2e.php

• Stern, G., Rabbi. (n.d.). What is the most fundamental difference between Reform
Judaism and Orthodox Judaism? Retrieved February 01, 2021, from
https://reformjudaism.org/learning/answers-jewish-questions/what-most-fundamental-di
fference-between-reform-judaism-and
• Telushkin, J. (2021). Afterlife in Judaism. Retrieved February 08, 2021, from
https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/afterlife
• Booker, D. (2019). Why Christians Should Learn About “Jews and Jewish Traditions”.
Retrieved February 08, 2021, from
https://irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com/afc54bfe/files/uploaded/WhyChristiansShouldLearnT
heirJewishRoots.pdf
Reference

• G., M. (2012). Orthodox Judaism: Background & Overview. Retrieved February 08,
2021, from https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/background-and-overview-of-orthodox-
judaism