An Overview of the An Overview of the World’s Major ReligionsWorld’s Major Religions

By R.D. Baker & Ryan By R.D. Baker & Ryan CartwrightCartwright

Acts 17:16 - While Paul was waiting in Acts 17:16 - While Paul was waiting in Athens, he was greatly distressed to see Athens, he was greatly distressed to see that the city was full of idols. So he that the city was full of idols. So he reasoned in the Synagogue with the Jews reasoned in the Synagogue with the Jews & God-fearing Greeks as well as in the & God-fearing Greeks as well as in the marketplace day by day with those who marketplace day by day with those who happened to be there. happened to be there.

v.22 – Paul then stood up in the v.22 – Paul then stood up in the meeting of the Aeropagus and said, meeting of the Aeropagus and said, “Men of Athens, I see that in every “Men of Athens, I see that in every way, you are very religious. For as I way, you are very religious. For as I walked around & looked carefully at walked around & looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription, found an altar with this inscription, ‘To an unknown god’. Now what you ‘To an unknown god’. Now what you worship as something unknown, I worship as something unknown, I am going to proclaim to you. am going to proclaim to you.

v.24 – The God who made the world & v.24 – The God who made the world & everything in it is the Lord of heaven & everything in it is the Lord of heaven & earth, & does not live in temples built by earth, & does not live in temples built by hands. And he’s not served by human hands, hands. And he’s not served by human hands, as if he needed anything, because he himself as if he needed anything, because he himself gives all men life & breath & everything else. gives all men life & breath & everything else. From one man, he made every nation of From one man, he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; & he determined the times set for earth; & he determined the times set for them & the exact places where they should them & the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek live. God did this so that men would seek him & perhaps reach out for him & find him, him & perhaps reach out for him & find him, though he is not far from each one of us.”though he is not far from each one of us.”

Major Religions of the Major Religions of the WorldWorld

Ranked by Number of Ranked by Number of AdherentsAdherents 1) Christianity: 2.1 billion 1) Christianity: 2.1 billion

2) Islam: 1.3 billion2) Islam: 1.3 billion 3) Nonreligious/Agnostic/Atheist: 1.1 billion3) Nonreligious/Agnostic/Atheist: 1.1 billion 4) Hinduism: 900 million4) Hinduism: 900 million 5) Chinese traditional religion: 394 million5) Chinese traditional religion: 394 million 6) Buddhism: 376 million6) Buddhism: 376 million Total of the top 6 categories: 6.1 billionTotal of the top 6 categories: 6.1 billion

Major Religions of the Major Religions of the WorldWorld

Ranked by Number of Ranked by Number of AdherentsAdherents 9) 9) SikhismSikhism: 23 million: 23 million

12) 12) JudaismJudaism: 15 million: 15 million 13) Baha'i: 7 million13) Baha'i: 7 million 17) Zoroastrianism: 2.6 million17) Zoroastrianism: 2.6 million 20) Unitarian-Universalism: 20) Unitarian-Universalism:

800 thousand800 thousand 21) Rastafarianism: 600 21) Rastafarianism: 600

thousandthousand 22) Scientology: 500 thousand22) Scientology: 500 thousand

America – “The Great America – “The Great Melting Pot”Melting Pot”

It has been said that the U.S. is “the great melting It has been said that the U.S. is “the great melting pot” for the people of the worldpot” for the people of the world

The contents of that “pot” would not be complete The contents of that “pot” would not be complete unless it also included the religions of those masses unless it also included the religions of those masses that now make up our country’s populationthat now make up our country’s population

As we are increasingly surrounded by other As we are increasingly surrounded by other religious teachings, it becomes vitally important as religious teachings, it becomes vitally important as to what we choose to believe & put our faith into…& to what we choose to believe & put our faith into…& then pass down to our childrenthen pass down to our children

Many Religions…Many Many Religions…Many Truth’s?Truth’s?

There are many religions & There are many religions & philosophies…but which ones are philosophies…but which ones are true?true?

Are all religions valid? Are all religions valid? Will they all get you to heaven?Will they all get you to heaven? Do all roads lead to heaven? Do all roads lead to heaven? We will see as we explore some of We will see as we explore some of

the major world religions.the major world religions.

Division Among Division Among ReligionsReligions

Every major religion has divisionsEvery major religion has divisions Not all the beliefs discussed will Not all the beliefs discussed will

apply to all adherents to a apply to all adherents to a particular religion – just as in particular religion – just as in Christianity there are a many Christianity there are a many divisions with different beliefsdivisions with different beliefs

Jesus said, "If you Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, hold to my teaching,

you are really my you are really my disciples. Then you disciples. Then you

will know the truth, & will know the truth, & the truth will set you the truth will set you

free." – John 8:31free." – John 8:31Truth has become quite subjective – Truth has become quite subjective –

but truth can be discerned by but truth can be discerned by considering the evidence.considering the evidence.

""I am not insane, most I am not insane, most excellent Festus," Paul excellent Festus," Paul replied. "What I am saying replied. "What I am saying is true & reasonable. The is true & reasonable. The king is familiar with these king is familiar with these things, & I can speak freely things, & I can speak freely to him. I am convinced that to him. I am convinced that none of this has escaped his none of this has escaped his notice, because it was not notice, because it was not done in a corner.”– Acts done in a corner.”– Acts 26:25-2726:25-27We can’t do an exhaustive study but We can’t do an exhaustive study but

we’ll do our best to present a basic we’ll do our best to present a basic understanding of the major & some understanding of the major & some

minor world religionsminor world religions

General IntroductionGeneral Introduction In this series we’ll examine different In this series we’ll examine different

religions & philosophies, consider their religions & philosophies, consider their respective founding fathers, history, respective founding fathers, history, scriptures & beliefs.scriptures & beliefs.

While we will make some comments on While we will make some comments on the various religions, the goal is not to the various religions, the goal is not to prove or discredit the various beliefs – prove or discredit the various beliefs – but simply to present the facts.but simply to present the facts.

It is each individual’s task to determine It is each individual’s task to determine whether what they believe is truewhether what they believe is true

Always remember: Always remember: Belief does not Belief does not equal truthequal truth..

FocusFocus In addition to this series – a study of In addition to this series – a study of

ancient pagan religions is ancient pagan religions is recommended to understand the recommended to understand the background & context for both background & context for both testaments. Unfortunately we don’t have testaments. Unfortunately we don’t have the time to look at these religions in this the time to look at these religions in this series.series.

Our focus is to present religions that exist Our focus is to present religions that exist in our neighborhoods today – that we may in our neighborhoods today – that we may come across.come across.

It is important to understand the people It is important to understand the people around us and to know what they believe.around us and to know what they believe.

Warning!Warning!““We know that we all possess knowledge. We know that we all possess knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. The Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. The man who thinks he knows something does man who thinks he knows something does

not yet know as he ought to know.” – 1 not yet know as he ought to know.” – 1 Corinthians 8:1-2Corinthians 8:1-2

““In your hearts set In your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. apart Christ as Lord.

Always be prepared to Always be prepared to give an answer to give an answer to

everyone who asks you everyone who asks you to give the reason for to give the reason for

the hope that you the hope that you have. But do this with have. But do this with

gentleness & gentleness & respect…” respect…”

- 1 Peter 3:15- 1 Peter 3:15Our goal is not to win the argument or Our goal is not to win the argument or to just possess knowledge, but to to just possess knowledge, but to in in

lovelove – guide people to the Truth – guide people to the Truth

DefinitionsDefinitions Monotheism – Belief in one godMonotheism – Belief in one god Polytheism – System of many godsPolytheism – System of many gods Pantheism – God synonymous with the Pantheism – God synonymous with the

universe or nature. “May the Force be with universe or nature. “May the Force be with you.”you.”

Animism – Animals, plants & objects all Animism – Animals, plants & objects all contain individual spiritscontain individual spirits

Asceticism – Enlightenment obtained Asceticism – Enlightenment obtained through extreme self denial (monasteries)through extreme self denial (monasteries)

Mysticism – Enlightenment & spiritual Mysticism – Enlightenment & spiritual powers through meditation/contemplationpowers through meditation/contemplation

JudaismJudaism15 Million Devotees15 Million Devotees

The Star of David & The MenorahThe Star of David & The Menorah(Represents the 7-day week & the Sabbath)(Represents the 7-day week & the Sabbath)

JudaismJudaism Religious culture of the Jewish People Religious culture of the Jewish People One of the world's oldest religions (Year 5,766)One of the world's oldest religions (Year 5,766) 1212thth largest religion in the world today largest religion in the world today Cultural system of Jewish law, custom & practice of Cultural system of Jewish law, custom & practice of

the whole individual & community the whole individual & community Believes that everyone is under God's ruleBelieves that everyone is under God's rule Oldest of the 3 main monotheistic (‘one god’) Oldest of the 3 main monotheistic (‘one god’)

religionsreligions Shares many beliefs with other 2, Islam & Shares many beliefs with other 2, Islam &

ChristianityChristianity Believes the world was created by a single, all-Believes the world was created by a single, all-

knowing divinity, & that all things within the world knowing divinity, & that all things within the world were designed to have meaning & purpose as part of were designed to have meaning & purpose as part of a divine ordera divine order

““Famous Jews for Famous Jews for $200, Alex”$200, Alex” AbrahamAbraham

MosesMoses King David & his son King SolomonKing David & his son King Solomon Mary (mother of Jesus)Mary (mother of Jesus) John the BaptistJohn the Baptist JesusJesus The TwelveThe Twelve The Apostle PaulThe Apostle Paul The entire early Christian ChurchThe entire early Christian Church

““Famous Jews for Famous Jews for $400, Alex”$400, Alex”

Show BizShow Biz – Harrison Ford, Cary Grant, Ben Stiller, – Harrison Ford, Cary Grant, Ben Stiller, Alicia Silverstone, Gwyneth Paltrow, Paul Newman, Alicia Silverstone, Gwyneth Paltrow, Paul Newman, Michael Douglas, Billy Crystal, George Burns, Rodney Michael Douglas, Billy Crystal, George Burns, Rodney Dangerfield, Richard Dreyfuss, Tony Clark, Goldie Dangerfield, Richard Dreyfuss, Tony Clark, Goldie Hawn, Bette Midler, Jerry Springer, Geraldo Rivera, Hawn, Bette Midler, Jerry Springer, Geraldo Rivera, Joan Rivers, Howard SternJoan Rivers, Howard Stern

MusiciansMusicians – Slash, Joey Ramone, Gene Simmons, – Slash, Joey Ramone, Gene Simmons, Kenny G, Paul Shaffer, Benny Goodman, Herb Alpert, Kenny G, Paul Shaffer, Benny Goodman, Herb Alpert,

AthletesAthletes – Boris Becker, Pete Sampras, Marc Spitz, – Boris Becker, Pete Sampras, Marc Spitz, Sasha Cohen, Sandy Koufax, David Beckham, Shawn Sasha Cohen, Sandy Koufax, David Beckham, Shawn Green, Hank GreenbergGreen, Hank Greenberg

““Famous Jews for Famous Jews for $600, Alex”$600, Alex”

Columbus, Leonardo da Vinci, Albert EinsteinColumbus, Leonardo da Vinci, Albert Einstein Anne Frank, Arthur Miller, Danielle Steele, J.D. Anne Frank, Arthur Miller, Danielle Steele, J.D.

Salinger, Neil Simon, Norman MailerSalinger, Neil Simon, Norman Mailer Milton Hershey, Vidal Sassoon, Michael Dell, Steve Milton Hershey, Vidal Sassoon, Michael Dell, Steve

Balmer, Mark CubanBalmer, Mark Cuban Adam Sandler, Jerry Seinfeld, Ali G, Marx BrothersAdam Sandler, Jerry Seinfeld, Ali G, Marx Brothers Harry Houdini, David Blaine, David CopperfieldHarry Houdini, David Blaine, David Copperfield Mel Blanc, Stan Lee, Matt ParkerMel Blanc, Stan Lee, Matt Parker Bob Dylan, Billy Joel, Barry Manilow, Barbra Bob Dylan, Billy Joel, Barry Manilow, Barbra

Streisand, Neil Diamond, Simon & Garfunkel, & yes, Streisand, Neil Diamond, Simon & Garfunkel, & yes, Elvis PresleyElvis Presley

15 million Jews throughout the world 15 million Jews throughout the world (Mostly in the U.S., Israel & former USSR)(Mostly in the U.S., Israel & former USSR)

Jews makes up 83% of Israel’s populationJews makes up 83% of Israel’s population More More Jews live in the U.S.Jews live in the U.S. than in than in

Israel!Israel! A higher proportion of American Jews are A higher proportion of American Jews are

religious (i.e., practice Judaism or profess religious (i.e., practice Judaism or profess some form of belief in Judaism) than in some form of belief in Judaism) than in Israel!Israel!

Where are they?

Major Branches of Major Branches of JudaismJudaism

Conservative – 4.5 millionConservative – 4.5 million Unaffiliated & Secular – 4.5 million Unaffiliated & Secular – 4.5 million Reform – 3.75 millionReform – 3.75 million Orthodox – 2 millionOrthodox – 2 million•Most Jews today do not strictly hold to Most Jews today do not strictly hold to the Lawthe Law•Many of Israel's Jews are secular - Many of Israel's Jews are secular - nonobservant andnonobservant and either nonreligious or even agnostic / either nonreligious or even agnostic / atheist atheist •Religious Jews are in the minority in Religious Jews are in the minority in IsraelIsrael

A Brief History of Time – A Brief History of Time – Jewish StyleJewish Style

Judaism dates back to the creation event, Judaism dates back to the creation event, but essentially starts to advance with Adam but essentially starts to advance with Adam and the other Patriarchs:and the other Patriarchs:

2100BC – God Promises Canaan to Abraham2100BC – God Promises Canaan to Abraham 1876-1446BC – Patriarchs arrive in Egypt 1876-1446BC – Patriarchs arrive in Egypt

and are enslaved for 430 yearsand are enslaved for 430 years 1446-1406BC – Desert Wanderings1446-1406BC – Desert Wanderings

1406-1050BC – Conquest/Period of Judges1406-1050BC – Conquest/Period of Judges 1050-930BC – United Monarchy (King David)1050-930BC – United Monarchy (King David) 930-722BC – Divided Kingdom to Assyrian 930-722BC – Divided Kingdom to Assyrian

Conquest; Beginning of DiasporaConquest; Beginning of Diaspora 722-587BC – Babylonian conquest, 722-587BC – Babylonian conquest,

Destruction of Solomon’s TempleDestruction of Solomon’s Temple 587-539BC – Babylonian Exile587-539BC – Babylonian Exile 539-333BC – Persian Period, Cyrus allows 539-333BC – Persian Period, Cyrus allows

Jews to return to rebuild Jerusalem & Jews to return to rebuild Jerusalem & TempleTemple

333-63BC – Greek Period – Hellenization 333-63BC – Greek Period – Hellenization of Holy Land; Maccabean Revolt; rise of of Holy Land; Maccabean Revolt; rise of Synagogue & religious parties Synagogue & religious parties (Sadducees, Essenes, Pharisees)(Sadducees, Essenes, Pharisees)

63BC-200AD – Roman period63BC-200AD – Roman period 70AD – Jewish War results in the 70AD – Jewish War results in the

destruction of Herod’s Temple, destruction of Herod’s Temple, Sanhedrin & sacrificial systemSanhedrin & sacrificial system

132AD – Judean revolt sparked by 132AD – Judean revolt sparked by Roman Emperor Hadrian’s building city Roman Emperor Hadrian’s building city Aelia Capitolina on top of ruins of Aelia Capitolina on top of ruins of Jerusalem. Jews banned from Jerusalem; Jerusalem. Jews banned from Jerusalem; circumcision of converts forbiddencircumcision of converts forbidden

200-640AD – Period of intense 200-640AD – Period of intense persecution mainly from the Christians, persecution mainly from the Christians, especially after Christianity became the especially after Christianity became the religion of the Roman Empirereligion of the Roman Empire

634-1096AD – Age of the Gaons – Muslim 634-1096AD – Age of the Gaons – Muslim conquests bring many Jews under Islamic conquests bring many Jews under Islamic domain, improving quality of life domain, improving quality of life considerablyconsiderably

1096AD – Crusades specifically target 1096AD – Crusades specifically target Jews; they are looted & murdered en Jews; they are looted & murdered en massemasse

1096-1348AD – Jews expelled from 1096-1348AD – Jews expelled from England, not returning until 1650England, not returning until 1650

1348 – Jews accused of poisoning wells 1348 – Jews accused of poisoning wells and causing the Black Death. (This and causing the Black Death. (This resulted in many gruesome massacres resulted in many gruesome massacres across Europe.)across Europe.)

1348-1517 – Jewish Influence – After the 1348-1517 – Jewish Influence – After the massacres, Jews allowed to return to their massacres, Jews allowed to return to their cities, many becoming moneylenders.cities, many becoming moneylenders.

1492 – Jews in Spain offered choice of 1492 – Jews in Spain offered choice of converting to Christianity or leaving the converting to Christianity or leaving the country. country.

Wherever they went the exiles had a Wherever they went the exiles had a powerful impact.powerful impact.

1517-1700 – Europe in Ferment – Period started 1517-1700 – Europe in Ferment – Period started with a era of tolerance as authorities viewed with a era of tolerance as authorities viewed Jews as useful. Massacres in 1648 & 1649 Jews as useful. Massacres in 1648 & 1649 devastated the Jews in Poland & the Ukraine.devastated the Jews in Poland & the Ukraine.

Numerous men rose up claiming to be the Numerous men rose up claiming to be the Messiah. Most important was Shabbetai Zevi Messiah. Most important was Shabbetai Zevi (1628-1716). He was imprisoned in Gallipolo; (1628-1716). He was imprisoned in Gallipolo; then later converted to Islam.then later converted to Islam.

““The Paradox of the traitorous Messiah is far The Paradox of the traitorous Messiah is far greater then an executed Messiah.” – Gershom greater then an executed Messiah.” – Gershom ScholemScholem

Meaning a Jew claiming to be the Messiah then Meaning a Jew claiming to be the Messiah then converting to Islam is more insulting than a converting to Islam is more insulting than a messiah being crucified.messiah being crucified.

1700’s-Present – Large numbers 1700’s-Present – Large numbers migrated to the Americas (period of migrated to the Americas (period of Jewish tolerance)Jewish tolerance)

1880’s – Strong Aryan, anti-semitic 1880’s – Strong Aryan, anti-semitic movements began in Francemovements began in France

WWII – Extermination of 1/3 of world’s WWII – Extermination of 1/3 of world’s Jewish population – 6 million murderedJewish population – 6 million murdered

1948 – Zionists pushed for & received 1948 – Zionists pushed for & received the State of Israel for the Jews to have a the State of Israel for the Jews to have a country once more. Battle for this country once more. Battle for this territory still rages todayterritory still rages today

Divisions & SectsDivisions & Sects Shortly after the original temple was built Shortly after the original temple was built

the first major rift in Jewish history occurred.the first major rift in Jewish history occurred. Under the poor leadership of King Under the poor leadership of King

Rehoboam, Israel divided into the Northern Rehoboam, Israel divided into the Northern Kingdom of Israel & the Southern Kingdom of Kingdom of Israel & the Southern Kingdom of Judea.Judea.

“But Rehoboam rejected the advice the elders gave him and consulted the young men who had grown up with him and were serving him.” – 1 Kings 12:8

The two kingdoms remained divided, & fell separatelyThe two kingdoms remained divided, & fell separately

After returning from exile, the Jews After returning from exile, the Jews formed at least 4 parties during the formed at least 4 parties during the Intertestamental period: Pharisees, Intertestamental period: Pharisees, Sadducees, Essenes & ZealotsSadducees, Essenes & Zealots

Each party had it’s own distinct Each party had it’s own distinct traditions in regards to culture, traditions in regards to culture, religious beliefs, ceremonies, religious beliefs, ceremonies, calendar, lifestyle, etc.calendar, lifestyle, etc.

The differences concern activities The differences concern activities more than theologymore than theology

PhariseesPharisees Represented more of the common peopleRepresented more of the common people Stressed holiness of life; created a body of Stressed holiness of life; created a body of

laws to prevent people from breaking laws laws to prevent people from breaking laws (‘hedging’)(‘hedging’)

Not as strict as the EssenesNot as strict as the Essenes Created the oral law; eventually became the Created the oral law; eventually became the

TalmudTalmud Unlike the Sadducees, they strongly resisted Unlike the Sadducees, they strongly resisted

the Hellenistic culturethe Hellenistic culture Emerged as the dominant group after 70ADEmerged as the dominant group after 70AD"Woe to you…Pharisees, you hypocrites! You shut the kingdom of heaven in men's faces. You yourselves do not enter, nor will you let those enter who are trying to.” – Jesus: Matthew 23:13

SadduceesSadducees Composed of wealthy aristocrats & priestsComposed of wealthy aristocrats & priests Held to a very strict interpretation of the ScripturesHeld to a very strict interpretation of the Scriptures Rejected the doctrine of the ResurrectionRejected the doctrine of the Resurrection Most members of the Sanhedrin were SadduceesMost members of the Sanhedrin were Sadducees Disappeared with Jerusalem destruction in 70ADDisappeared with Jerusalem destruction in 70AD

When John the Baptist saw many of the Pharisees & Sadducees coming to where he was baptizing, he said to them: “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath?” – Matthew 3:7

EssenesEssenes Ascetic, monastic sect; removed themselves Ascetic, monastic sect; removed themselves

from daily life to prevent being polluted by the from daily life to prevent being polluted by the corrupt worldcorrupt world

No personal possessions, very strict No personal possessions, very strict observation of community & Sabbath rules, observation of community & Sabbath rules, incl. no bowel movementsincl. no bowel movements

Devoted themselves to study, with a focus on Devoted themselves to study, with a focus on moral & ethical learningmoral & ethical learning

Qumran sect is best known of this group; the Qumran sect is best known of this group; the Dead Sea Scrolls were widely believed to be Dead Sea Scrolls were widely believed to be their worktheir work

Their website claims almost all main founders Their website claims almost all main founders of what would later be called ‘Christianity’ of what would later be called ‘Christianity’ were Essenes, incl. Joseph & Mary, John the were Essenes, incl. Joseph & Mary, John the Baptist, Jesus & JohnBaptist, Jesus & John

ZealotsZealots Term used to describe Jewish anti-Roman groups using Term used to describe Jewish anti-Roman groups using

both political & military tacticsboth political & military tactics Covered many different factions; was not a party nameCovered many different factions; was not a party name Began in 6AD by Judas Maccabees based on inspiration Began in 6AD by Judas Maccabees based on inspiration

of Phinehas (Numbers 25:11)of Phinehas (Numbers 25:11) ““Sicarii” (‘Dagger-men’) most extreme branch; carried Sicarii” (‘Dagger-men’) most extreme branch; carried

short daggers, stabbing their enemies in broad short daggers, stabbing their enemies in broad daylight in large crowds, then joined the outraged daylight in large crowds, then joined the outraged crowd, adding their own cries of indignationcrowd, adding their own cries of indignation

Largely responsible for the beginning of the Jewish Largely responsible for the beginning of the Jewish War, which led to the destruction of the TempleWar, which led to the destruction of the Temple

ZealotsZealots One of the 12 apostles was ‘Simon the Zealot’One of the 12 apostles was ‘Simon the Zealot’ Barabbas; possibly Paul (Acts 22:3; Galatians Barabbas; possibly Paul (Acts 22:3; Galatians

1:14)1:14) Acts 21:38 – ‘4,000 Assassins’ – ‘4,000 Acts 21:38 – ‘4,000 Assassins’ – ‘4,000

Terrorists’Terrorists’ Mark 15:7 – ‘The Insurrectionists’Mark 15:7 – ‘The Insurrectionists’ Last Zealot Stronghold, Masada, fell in May Last Zealot Stronghold, Masada, fell in May

74AD74AD

Orthodox vs. Orthodox vs. ReformedReformed

Most obvious division today is between Most obvious division today is between Orthodox & Progressive JewsOrthodox & Progressive Jews

Orthodox Jews adhere to a very strict Orthodox Jews adhere to a very strict biblical & oral law (Talmud).biblical & oral law (Talmud).

Diligently follow Sabbatical laws & Diligently follow Sabbatical laws & Kosher regulations. (In their own eyes Kosher regulations. (In their own eyes no other Jews are really Jews.)no other Jews are really Jews.)

Reformed JudaismReformed Judaism Began in Germany in the 18Began in Germany in the 18thth Century Century Followed philosophies of enlightenment, enjoying Followed philosophies of enlightenment, enjoying

the benefits of the lessening persecutionthe benefits of the lessening persecution Soon many Jews adapted to their culture rather Soon many Jews adapted to their culture rather

than holding to their traditionsthan holding to their traditions Using scientific inquiry and critical evaluation some Using scientific inquiry and critical evaluation some

even taught that man no longer needed to accept even taught that man no longer needed to accept the revelation of the Torah as factual & bindingthe revelation of the Torah as factual & binding

Changes in ritual law & worship were encouraged; Changes in ritual law & worship were encouraged; dietary laws were abandoned and a more “people dietary laws were abandoned and a more “people friendly” version of Judaism was bornfriendly” version of Judaism was born

Kabbalah (Mysticism)Kabbalah (Mysticism) Branch of Judaism; meaning ‘Received Tradition’Branch of Judaism; meaning ‘Received Tradition’ Claims to be the oldest religion; with origins Claims to be the oldest religion; with origins

dating back to Adam & Abrahamdating back to Adam & Abraham Possesses secret & mystic “truths”Possesses secret & mystic “truths” Claims to hold the long-hidden keys to the Claims to hold the long-hidden keys to the

secrets of the universe & mysteries of the secrets of the universe & mysteries of the human heart & soulhuman heart & soul

Many similarities to Gnostic movementsMany similarities to Gnostic movements Essenes protected their writings, allegedly Essenes protected their writings, allegedly

authored by Cain, Noah & Jaredauthored by Cain, Noah & Jared Isaac Newton, Madonna, Britney Spears, Paris Isaac Newton, Madonna, Britney Spears, Paris

Hilton, Demi Moore, Ashton Kutcher, Mick Jagger, Hilton, Demi Moore, Ashton Kutcher, Mick Jagger, Anthony Kiedis Anthony Kiedis

Basic Teachings of Basic Teachings of KabbalahKabbalah In order to claim the gifts you were created to receive, In order to claim the gifts you were created to receive,

you must 1you must 1stst earn those gifts. You do this undertaking earn those gifts. You do this undertaking spiritual work — the process of transforming yourself. By spiritual work — the process of transforming yourself. By recognizing the sources of negativity in your mind & recognizing the sources of negativity in your mind & heart, you’ll receive the tools for positive change.heart, you’ll receive the tools for positive change.

Every human being is a work in progress. Pain, Every human being is a work in progress. Pain, disappointment & chaos exists not because this is how life disappointment & chaos exists not because this is how life is meant to be, but because of unfinished work that is meant to be, but because of unfinished work that brought the strife. That work is the process of freeing brought the strife. That work is the process of freeing yourself from the domination of the human ego and yourself from the domination of the human ego and creating an attraction with God.creating an attraction with God.

In everyday life, this transformation means letting go of In everyday life, this transformation means letting go of anger, jealousy & other reactive behaviors – in favor of anger, jealousy & other reactive behaviors – in favor of patience, empathy & compassion. It does not mean giving patience, empathy & compassion. It does not mean giving up all desires, & going to live on a mountaintop. On the up all desires, & going to live on a mountaintop. On the contrary, it means desiring more of the fulfillment that contrary, it means desiring more of the fulfillment that humanity was meant to have.humanity was meant to have.

Jewish Culture & Jewish Culture & BeliefsBeliefs

To understand any religion we must look at To understand any religion we must look at what their followers believe & how they live. what their followers believe & how they live. In this section we’ll look at a few major Jewish In this section we’ll look at a few major Jewish beliefs beliefs

The Jewish culture has existed for thousands The Jewish culture has existed for thousands of years – so many beliefs changed with timeof years – so many beliefs changed with time

Much of what we know of ancient Jewish Much of what we know of ancient Jewish history is found in the writing of Josephus & history is found in the writing of Josephus & Philo (Essenes)Philo (Essenes)

Let’s look at some key terms of Judaism:Let’s look at some key terms of Judaism:

MonotheismMonotheism There is only one God, YHWHThere is only one God, YHWH Originally Judaism was much Originally Judaism was much

different than the majority of ancient different than the majority of ancient polytheistic religions. (An important polytheistic religions. (An important statement of Jewish Theology.)statement of Jewish Theology.)

Parented the other two main Parented the other two main monotheistic religions: Islam & monotheistic religions: Islam & ChristianityChristianity

Land of Land of Canaan/Promised LandCanaan/Promised Land

God promised Abraham that his God promised Abraham that his descendants would inherit this land forever descendants would inherit this land forever

When it was lost it was a devastating blow When it was lost it was a devastating blow to people’s faithto people’s faith

Many believe that God was behind giving Many believe that God was behind giving the land back to the Jews in this century the land back to the Jews in this century (1948)(1948)

The Lord had said to Abram, "Leave your The Lord had said to Abram, "Leave your country, your people & your father's household country, your people & your father's household and go to the land I will show you. I will make and go to the land I will show you. I will make you into a great nation & I will bless you; I will you into a great nation & I will bless you; I will make your name great, & you will be a blessing. make your name great, & you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, & whoever I will bless those who bless you, & whoever curses you I will curse; & all peoples on earth curses you I will curse; & all peoples on earth will be blessed through you." – Genesis 12:1-3will be blessed through you." – Genesis 12:1-3

Israel – God’s Chosen PeopleIsrael – God’s Chosen People – The – The Jewish nation Abraham fathered has Jewish nation Abraham fathered has always believed themselves to be God’s always believed themselves to be God’s only chosen people. (Jewish vs. Gentile only chosen people. (Jewish vs. Gentile perspective.)perspective.)

The LawThe Law – Found predominately in the – Found predominately in the Pentateuch (books of the Law). 613 total Pentateuch (books of the Law). 613 total commandments the Jews were to obey. commandments the Jews were to obey. Today only Orthodox Jews attempt to obey Today only Orthodox Jews attempt to obey them all. (The rest pick & choose which them all. (The rest pick & choose which portions of the law are applicable to them.)portions of the law are applicable to them.)

The ShemaThe Shema Judaism has no formal creed but the Judaism has no formal creed but the

essence of their faith is summed up essence of their faith is summed up in the Shemain the Shema

Shema means “Hear,” as in “Hear O Shema means “Hear,” as in “Hear O Lord” Lord”

Read every morning by pious Jews to Read every morning by pious Jews to remind them of the Lawremind them of the Law

Consists mainly of Deuteronomy 6:4-Consists mainly of Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and affirms their monotheistic 9 and affirms their monotheistic belief, as well as praises God for his belief, as well as praises God for his creation, revelation & redemptioncreation, revelation & redemption

The SabbathThe Sabbath Begins at sunset each Friday, ends the Begins at sunset each Friday, ends the

same time the next daysame time the next day Considered the most important Jewish Considered the most important Jewish

festivalfestival Originally ordained by God to be a holy Originally ordained by God to be a holy

day of rest where work was forbiddenday of rest where work was forbidden Few things are specifically forbidden in Few things are specifically forbidden in

the Bible (Numbers 15:32-36 - Gathering the Bible (Numbers 15:32-36 - Gathering kindling is forbidden under pain of death.)kindling is forbidden under pain of death.)

Most of the rules are found in the Mishnah Most of the rules are found in the Mishnah of 200AD, and are quite detailed & of 200AD, and are quite detailed & restrictive.restrictive.

The SabbathThe SabbathSome rules obeyed by various sects include:Some rules obeyed by various sects include: No fires can be lit on the Sabbath, although No fires can be lit on the Sabbath, although

if it is already burning it can remain litif it is already burning it can remain lit No long journeys may be undertakenNo long journeys may be undertaken No vehicles may be drivenNo vehicles may be driven Historically some sects even went as far as Historically some sects even went as far as

to forbid bowel movements on the Sabbath to forbid bowel movements on the Sabbath although that was not the common practicealthough that was not the common practice

Kosher/Dietary Kosher/Dietary RegulationsRegulations

Kosher – Fit or clean according to Jewish dietary lawsKosher – Fit or clean according to Jewish dietary laws Regulations found in the Torah (Lev 11, Deut 14), but Regulations found in the Torah (Lev 11, Deut 14), but

many more added through traditionsmany more added through traditions Meat & dairy products can’t be eaten together. (Many Meat & dairy products can’t be eaten together. (Many

households have 2 sets of dishes to prevent any households have 2 sets of dishes to prevent any contactcontact

Jewish hotels have 2 kitchens to prevent Jewish hotels have 2 kitchens to prevent contaminationcontamination

Animals must be slaughtered & prepared by a Animals must be slaughtered & prepared by a ‘shochet’, trained & ordained in the kosher regulations‘shochet’, trained & ordained in the kosher regulations

Orthodox Jews follow these regulations meticulously; Orthodox Jews follow these regulations meticulously; average Jews do notaverage Jews do not

The SynagogueThe Synagogue Place of Jewish communal worship Place of Jewish communal worship Most Jews are members of a Synagogue Most Jews are members of a Synagogue

although that does not mean that they although that does not mean that they regularly attendregularly attend

Mainly a place for reading scripture & prayerMainly a place for reading scripture & prayer Since 70AD (Destruction of the Temple), this Since 70AD (Destruction of the Temple), this

has been the center of both religious & has been the center of both religious & cultural lifecultural life

May have originated after 586BC to replace May have originated after 586BC to replace temple worship while in exile, but it developed temple worship while in exile, but it developed rapidly during the Intertestamental periodrapidly during the Intertestamental period

FestivalsFestivalsJewish religious year has many Jewish religious year has many

annual festivalsannual festivals Rosh HashanahRosh Hashanah – Jewish New Year’s – Jewish New Year’s

Day, occurring in September or Day, occurring in September or OctoberOctober

Celebrates both the creation of the Celebrates both the creation of the world and God’s judgment of the world and God’s judgment of the world world

Tradition says this was the day God Tradition says this was the day God called the Universe into existencecalled the Universe into existence

People are called to return to God and People are called to return to God and set aside next 10 days for self set aside next 10 days for self examination & repentanceexamination & repentance

Yom Kippur – Day of Yom Kippur – Day of AtonementAtonement

Holiest day of the Jewish YearHoliest day of the Jewish Year Concludes 10-day period begun on New Concludes 10-day period begun on New

Year’sYear’s Day of fasting, prayer & public Day of fasting, prayer & public

confession of sinconfession of sin Commemorates the day when the High Commemorates the day when the High

Priest made sacrifices for people of Israel Priest made sacrifices for people of Israel and entered the Holy of Holiesand entered the Holy of Holies

No sacrifices today, so worshippers fast No sacrifices today, so worshippers fast for 24 hours and spend the whole day at for 24 hours and spend the whole day at the synagoguethe synagogue

At the end of the day they consider At the end of the day they consider themselves to be rebornthemselves to be reborn

5 days after Day of Atonement5 days after Day of Atonement Lasts for one weekLasts for one week One of 3 harvest festivals in the Jewish One of 3 harvest festivals in the Jewish

year (Passover & Pentecost)year (Passover & Pentecost) Model for Christian harvest Model for Christian harvest

celebrationscelebrations Purpose: To remember how God Purpose: To remember how God

provided for His people during the 40 provided for His people during the 40 years in the dessertyears in the dessert

Shelters or Tabernacles of branches Shelters or Tabernacles of branches are built and lived in for the weekare built and lived in for the week

Sukkot – Feast of TabernaclesSukkot – Feast of Tabernacles

During the course of every year the During the course of every year the entire Pentateuch is read in the entire Pentateuch is read in the synagoguesynagogue

On this day the reading is completed On this day the reading is completed with the last few verses of with the last few verses of Deuteronomy & the 1Deuteronomy & the 1stst few of Genesis few of Genesis

The scrolls of the law are carried The scrolls of the law are carried around the synagogue in a procession, around the synagogue in a procession, with much joy, singing & dancingwith much joy, singing & dancing

Simchat Torah – Rejoicing of the LawSimchat Torah – Rejoicing of the Law

Celebrated around Christmas timeCelebrated around Christmas time Celebrates the Maccabean victory Celebrates the Maccabean victory

over Antiochus IV Epiphanes in over Antiochus IV Epiphanes in 164BC, when the temple was 164BC, when the temple was rededicated to God. (Antiochus had rededicated to God. (Antiochus had set up a idol in the temple to Zeus, & set up a idol in the temple to Zeus, & sacrificed a pig on it.)sacrificed a pig on it.)

The festival lasts eight daysThe festival lasts eight days On each day a candle on a menorah On each day a candle on a menorah

(9-branched candle stick) is lit(9-branched candle stick) is lit

Hanukkah - Festival Hanukkah - Festival of Lightsof Lights

Celebrated in Feb/Mar; recalls the story of Celebrated in Feb/Mar; recalls the story of EstherEsther

Named in reference to the lot (‘pur’) Haman Named in reference to the lot (‘pur’) Haman cast to decide the day to destroy the Jews in cast to decide the day to destroy the Jews in the Persian Empire (Esther 3:7)the Persian Empire (Esther 3:7)

The entire book of Esther read in the The entire book of Esther read in the synagogues. Whenever Haman’s name is synagogues. Whenever Haman’s name is mentioned, the boys make noise & stomp mentioned, the boys make noise & stomp their feettheir feet

The festival is a time of parties and a The festival is a time of parties and a special pastry served called Hamantaschenspecial pastry served called Hamantaschen

Purim – LotPurim – Lot

Recalls the deliverance of Israel from slavery Recalls the deliverance of Israel from slavery in Egypt, especially the last plague of the 1in Egypt, especially the last plague of the 1stst BornBorn

A special meal is served in the home called A special meal is served in the home called Sedar (“order”)Sedar (“order”)

The youngest child asks, “What does this The youngest child asks, “What does this mean?” & the father relates the Exodus storymean?” & the father relates the Exodus story

Traditionally an extra seat is left for Elijah, Traditionally an extra seat is left for Elijah, who’s expected to herald in the Messianic who’s expected to herald in the Messianic ageage

On the eve of Passover a thorough search is On the eve of Passover a thorough search is made for leaven in the homemade for leaven in the home

Pesach – PassoverPesach – Passover

PentecostPentecostFeast of the First Fruits Feast of the First Fruits

(Weeks)(Weeks) Originally an agricultural celebration occurring Originally an agricultural celebration occurring 7-weeks or 50 days after the beginning of 7-weeks or 50 days after the beginning of Passover Passover

Commemorates the Law given to Moses on Mt. Commemorates the Law given to Moses on Mt. SinaiSinai

Also associated with failed revolt against the Also associated with failed revolt against the Romans in 2Romans in 2ndnd Century AD Century AD

The Ten Commandments are readThe Ten Commandments are read Some Jews stay up all night mediating on the Some Jews stay up all night mediating on the

LawLaw The day the Christian Church started!The day the Christian Church started!

Tishah B’AvTishah B’Av Observed on 9Observed on 9thth day of Av – around day of Av – around

July/AugustJuly/August Memorializes the Temple destruction of 70 Memorializes the Temple destruction of 70

ADAD Some also link it with the 586BC destructionSome also link it with the 586BC destruction All ornaments are removed from the All ornaments are removed from the

synagoguesynagogue Day of mourning & fastingDay of mourning & fasting

The Three RitesThe Three Rites In addition to the festivals, modern In addition to the festivals, modern

male Jews celebrate 3 rites in the male Jews celebrate 3 rites in the course of their lives: Circumcision, course of their lives: Circumcision, Bar Mitzvah & MarriageBar Mitzvah & Marriage

According to Orthodox Jewish law a According to Orthodox Jewish law a Jew is one born to a Jewish motherJew is one born to a Jewish mother

Boys are circumcised 8 days after Boys are circumcised 8 days after birth and receive their Jewish namebirth and receive their Jewish name

Circumcisions can be done by a Circumcisions can be done by a doctor or by a Mohel, a trained & doctor or by a Mohel, a trained & registered professionalregistered professional

CircumcisionCircumcision According to Orthodox Jewish law, a Jew is According to Orthodox Jewish law, a Jew is

one born to a Jewish motherone born to a Jewish mother Boys are circumcised 8 days after birth and Boys are circumcised 8 days after birth and

then receive their Jewish namethen receive their Jewish name Circumcisions can be done by a doctor or by Circumcisions can be done by a doctor or by

a ‘Mohel’, a trained & registered a ‘Mohel’, a trained & registered professionalprofessional

At age 13, Jewish boys becomes Bar-At age 13, Jewish boys becomes Bar-Mitzvah (son of the Commandment)Mitzvah (son of the Commandment)

On the Sabbath after this birthday, he On the Sabbath after this birthday, he reads from the Torah during the reads from the Torah during the synagogue service for the 1synagogue service for the 1stst time time

From this time on he is expected to fulfill From this time on he is expected to fulfill all the duties of a Jewall the duties of a Jew

A girl becomes Bat-Mitzvah (daughter of A girl becomes Bat-Mitzvah (daughter of the Commandment) automatically at the the Commandment) automatically at the age of 12. Some synagogues will have a age of 12. Some synagogues will have a ceremony to celebrateceremony to celebrate

Bar-Mitzvah

Marriage is considered to be a holy covenantMarriage is considered to be a holy covenant Bridegroom signs the marriage document Bridegroom signs the marriage document

(‘ketubbah’) & pledges himself to his bride(‘ketubbah’) & pledges himself to his bride During the service the couple stands under During the service the couple stands under

an embroidered canopy supported by 4 an embroidered canopy supported by 4 poles, which represents their future homepoles, which represents their future home

The ceremony ends with the bridegroom The ceremony ends with the bridegroom breaking a glass. Some think this is symbolic breaking a glass. Some think this is symbolic of the destruction of the temple, others of the destruction of the temple, others believe it’s to take moments to reflect – even believe it’s to take moments to reflect – even during times of great joyduring times of great joy

Marriage

The TempleThe Temple Originally built by Solomon approx. 950 BCOriginally built by Solomon approx. 950 BC Rebuilt last by King Herod – an 83-year Rebuilt last by King Herod – an 83-year

project completed in 63AD – on 35 acres of project completed in 63AD – on 35 acres of landland

Two most significant events in Jewish history Two most significant events in Jewish history are the destruction of the temples: 586BC by are the destruction of the temples: 586BC by the Babylonians & 70AD by the Romansthe Babylonians & 70AD by the Romans

While the temple has not existed for 1900 While the temple has not existed for 1900 years it is still a very relevant topicyears it is still a very relevant topic

Many Jews believe that God will allow for the Many Jews believe that God will allow for the temple to be rebuilt again, now that they temple to be rebuilt again, now that they have returned to the Holy landhave returned to the Holy land

Herod’s TempleHerod’s Temple

However, it is very unlikely that Muslims However, it is very unlikely that Muslims will allow this – as they’ve built the “Dome will allow this – as they’ve built the “Dome of the Rock” on the location of the original of the Rock” on the location of the original TempleTemple

All that remains of the original Temple is All that remains of the original Temple is the Western Wall also knows as the Wailing the Western Wall also knows as the Wailing Wall Wall

The wall is a place of prayer & lamentation The wall is a place of prayer & lamentation – as well as a popular pilgrimage site– as well as a popular pilgrimage site

Dome of the Rock – Al-Dome of the Rock – Al-Aqsa MosqueAqsa Mosque

Dome of the Rock – Al-Aqsa Dome of the Rock – Al-Aqsa MosqueMosque

ScripturesScriptures We’re very familiar with the Hebrew We’re very familiar with the Hebrew

Scriptures as the Old Testament contains Scriptures as the Old Testament contains them in their entirety, although the format them in their entirety, although the format is differentis different

A prominent feature of the OT is the three-A prominent feature of the OT is the three-fold division of The Torah (Law), Nevi’im fold division of The Torah (Law), Nevi’im (Prophets) & the Ketuvim (Writings)(Prophets) & the Ketuvim (Writings)

In addition to the Torah a large body of laws have In addition to the Torah a large body of laws have developed over time:developed over time:

100BC-70 AD – Pharisees’ oral interpretations of 100BC-70 AD – Pharisees’ oral interpretations of the Torahthe Torah

200AD – Mishnah – Interpretations of the Torah by 200AD – Mishnah – Interpretations of the Torah by Rabbinic writersRabbinic writers

200-500AD – Midrash – Rabbinic sermons on the 200-500AD – Midrash – Rabbinic sermons on the TorahTorah

400AD – Palestinian Gemera records debates of 400AD – Palestinian Gemera records debates of Rabbis in PalestineRabbis in Palestine

400AD – Jerusalem Talmud – Consists of the 400AD – Jerusalem Talmud – Consists of the Mishnah & Palestinian GemaraMishnah & Palestinian Gemara

500AD – Following an independent development of 500AD – Following an independent development of thought in Babylon, a separate Talmud developed thought in Babylon, a separate Talmud developed consisting of Babylonian Gemara & the Mishnah.consisting of Babylonian Gemara & the Mishnah.

Wailing Wall - JerusalemWailing Wall - Jerusalem