Area of Study 1F: Judaism Study Guide

Jewish beliefs are fundamentally rooted in monotheism, the worship of one God. This God is understood as the creator of the universe, who is eternal, omnipotent, and omniscient. A central tenet is the covenant relationship between God and the Jewish people, established with Abraham and renewed through Moses at Sinai. This covenant involves God's promise to be their God and protect them, in return for their obedience to His laws, primarily expressed in the Torah. The Torah, comprising the Written Torah (the first five books of the Hebrew Bible) and the Oral Torah (rabbinic interpretations), provides guidance for Jewish life, ethics, and rituals. Belief in the Messiah, a future redeemer who will bring a Messianic Era of peace and universal knowledge of God, is also significant, though interpretations vary among different Jewish traditions. Resurrection of the dead and the World to Come are also major beliefs which vary in interpretation regarding when and how they will occur.

Jewish teachings emphasise the sanctity of life, considering it a gift from God. This principle, known as *Pikuach Nefesh*, prioritises saving a life above almost all other commandments. Consequently, many Jewish denominations typically oppose abortion unless the mother's life is at risk, as the foetus is seen as having developing sanctity. In matters of death, Jewish law typically mandates natural death and forbids active euthanasia, viewing life as belonging to God. While actively shortening life is forbidden, passive euthanasia (removing life support for a terminally ill patient) may be permissible in some interpretations, particularly if suffering is prolonged and there is no hope of recovery. Funerals and mourning rituals offer comfort and respect, with a strong belief in an afterlife, though interpretations vary.