What is the brief history of Judaism?

It is history that provides the key to an understanding of Judaism, for its primal affirmations appear in early historical narratives. Thus, the

Bible reports contemporary events and activities for essentially religious reasons. The biblical authors believed that the divine presence is encountered primarily within history. God’s presence is also experienced within the natural realm, but the more immediate or intimate disclosure occurs in human actions. Although other ancient communities also perceived a divine presence in history, the understanding of the ancient

Israelites proved to be the most lasting and influential. It is this particular claim—to have experienced God’s presence in human events—and its subsequent development that is the differentiating factor in Jewish thought.

Moreover, the ancient Israelites’ entire mode of existence was affected by their belief that throughout history they stood in a unique relationship with the divine. The people of Israel believed that their response to the divine presence in history was central not only for themselves but for all humankind. Furthermore, God—as person—had revealed in a particular encounter the pattern and structure of communal and individual life to this people. Claiming sovereignty over the people because of his continuing action in history on their behalf, he had established a

covenant (berit) with them and required from them obedience to his teaching, or law (

Torah). This obedience was a further means by which the divine presence was made manifest—expressed in concrete human existence. The corporate life of the

chosen community was thus a summons to the rest of humankind to recognize God’s presence, sovereignty, and purpose—the establishment of peace and well-being in the universe and in humankind.

History, moreover, disclosed not only God’s purpose but also humankind’s inability to live in accord with it. Even the chosen community failed in its obligation and had to be summoned back, time and again, to its responsibility by the

prophets—the divinely called spokespersons who warned of retribution within history and argued and reargued the case for affirmative human response. Israel’s role in the divine economy and thus Israel’s particular culpability were dominant themes sounded against the motif of fulfillment, the ultimate triumph of the divine purpose, and the establishment of divine sovereignty over all humankind.

Doorways is the online hub for what to offer at life’s most important events

This website is a tool you can use to add meaning to your life events. We aim to build a new sense of how to be “at home” in Jewish life. You can build a better life using these spiritual tools. This website offers you the opportunity to glean from traditional and modern sources: prayers, poems, songs, texts and psalms. Whether you are preparing to offer a toast, leading a service, or writing a letter, we invite you to use this website to enhance your words and inspire your community.

Are you looking for a Clergy Member to help you with this life event? Please fill out the form and we’ll connect you with someone in your area.

To know more visit:

Starting High School Education - Jewish Prayers & blessing Find inspirational Jewish prayers, text, psalm and poem related to Starting High School Education life cycle event. Offer prayers and blessing to your child. https://jewishdoorways.org/stage_events/starting-high-school-education/