Judaism - Its Historic And Cultural Significance
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by: Owen Makita
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Word Count: 441
Date: Mon, 10 Jan 2011 Time: 6:59 AM
Judaism, defined as the act of being a member of a race of people with a ancient religious identity, has been a topic of discussion since its foundation, not least among its own people. The Internet is the modern gathering place of Jewish people who may have lost a little of their community connection.
The Jewish people were historically isolated by their religion, a monotheistic belief opposed to most of the cultures around them, who worshiped many gods or idols. As written in the Hebrew Bible, the Torah, the Jews were led into their destiny by Moses, who authored the books of history and law that make up the Old Testament. The Jewish history is probably the best known saga in our world.
This social isolation and consequent solidarity has continued through the ages. Persecuted for their faith and also for political and financial reasons, Jewish people learned to stick together. Families taught the importance of keeping old traditions and not marrying outside the faith.
The history of Jews is a long tale of prosperous national unity followed by times of forced dispersal throughout the nations of the world. The resurrection of Israel by treaty at the end of World War II is viewed by many as the fulfillment of prophecy. The divine intervention of God is also seen as an explanation for the survival of this tiny nation against seemingly overwhelming opposition.
However, today there are many Jews who consider themselves members of a race rather than a religion. Humanistic or secular people may keep the traditions or not as they choose; being Jewish has always been voluntary.
However, the Jews are a close-knit people in large part, with many traditions and clannish instincts that keep them apart from other races and cultures. Usually good in business and given to scholarly pursuits, the Jews have a stable society when left alone. Their prosperity often makes them targets for those who want what they have in the way of worldly goods.
The western world in particular owes much to the Jewish people, since their religion has given rise to many of the principles of government and the legal system. Christianity is a continuation of the Hebrew religion rather than a new form of worship.
The Internet is a great place to connect with Judaism, whether you are interested in the trappings, the special ceremonial events, the literature, the politics, or just the community. A simple search will open up a whole new window on this ancient race that has influenced world events from its very early beginnings.
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