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God and authority in JudaismThe Almighty

Jews believe in one God, who created the world and who is revealed through the Torah and Tenakh. These are the main sources of wisdom to help them to improve their relationship with God and to live good lives.

Part of Religious StudiesJudaism

The Almighty

Many Jews believe that the non-physical nature of God makes it difficult for humans to understand him. However, Jews feel they can learn more about God and his characteristics from the .

God is One

Figure caption,
A mezuzah hangs from the door of a Jewish home

Belief in one God () is central to the Jewish faith. Judaism teaches that God is the only being who should be offered worship and praise.

The is recited twice daily by many Jews and shows this key belief: Hear O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. (Deuteronomy 6:4)

The Shema is taken from the books of Deuteronomy and Numbers, which can be found in the . Today, some Jewish people have a holding the Shema on their doorpost or gate as a reminder of the oneness of God.

God is the Creator

Jews believe that God created the world and everything in it. In 2, Jews learn that God created humans from dust:

And Hashem God formed the man of dust from the ground, and He blew into his nostrils the soul of life.
Genesis 2:7

The Torah teaches that the world belongs to God because he created it.

God is a Law-Giver

Jews believe that God gave laws to the Jewish people so that they may live in a way that pleases him. These laws are known today as the 613 . received these laws from God on .

Image caption,
Mount Sinai in early morning light

God is a Judge

The Tenakh teaches that God will judge Jewish people on how well they have kept his laws. Those who have lived righteously will be rewarded but those who have not will be punished. Today, Jews focus on judgement during the festivals of and .

Question

Why are the characteristics of God important for Jews today?