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JUDAISM 101: The Basics of the Faith and the Challenge of Contemporary Culture
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The very foundation of Jewish faith and practice is the belief in a single, passionately caring God. He is the Creator of all that exists. He nurtures His creation, particularly mankind. He is deeply involved in the affairs of humanity.
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The central tenets of Jewish faith are summed up in Deuteronomy 6: 4-9. So central are these concepts that traditional Jews recite these words twice daily.The Siddur, the traditional Jewish prayer book, in the rubric before these verses are recited state that one must concentrate most deeply and pronounce each word most carefully and slowly, with the intent of accepting upon themselves the commandment to love God whole-heartedly.The verse declares: Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is One.
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Sh'ma Yisrael, Adonay Elehenu, Adonay Echad!
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Out of this profound belief in One God, and His concern for all creation, comes the idea of covenant. We were created for a purpose, to continue the creative process begun by God. We are to work the earth, subdue and utilize the forces of nature, so that we may bring forth fruit,not only material,m but fruit of the spirit as well.Judaism is a religion that is very much concerned with this world. As God's agents on earth, so to speak, we are to observe His laws that represent His will for our world.In the pages that follow we will explore the meaning and application of many of these laws within the context of our contemporary culture. Jewish faith is ever in dialogue with its surroundings enriching the host culture and often being enriched in the process as well.
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