Judaism

Judaism is the religion and culture of the Jews. Please note that not all Jews are religious but live the Jewish culture.

Contents

History

Judaism was developed in the middle east by the ancient Hebrews.

Beliefs

Judaism is characterized by belief in one transcendent God who has revealed himself to Abraham, Moses, and the Hebrew prophets and by a religious life in accordance with Scriptures and rabbinic traditions.

Controversial practice

Judaism has historically held a belief in the so-called Abrahamic covenant which purports to require that every newborn boy be circumcised on the eighth day of life. This has now become controversial because of the certain intense pain suffered by the boy, because of the certain lifetime loss of foreskin function, and because of the violation of the child's human rights.

Religious officials

Rabbis (teachers, masters) carry out teaching and educational functions while mohels carry out the ritual circumcision called Brit Milah in accordance with the Abrahamic covenant.

Symbol

The symbol of Judaism is the Star of David, which is a six-pointed star design.

Questioning circumcision

The alleged Abrahamic covenant is found in the Pentateuch (Torah) book of Genesis, chapter 17. This has been questioned for several reasons. The practice of circumcision conflicts with many other Jewish values. Moreover, textual criticism indicates that this chapter appears to be a later insertion into the text of this Hebrew book.

A non-cuttting alternative to Brit Milah, usually called Brit Shalom, is gaining in popularity. Mark D. Reiss, M.D., has sponsored the Mark D. Reiss, M.D. Inclusion Directory, where more information on Brit Shalom may be found.

Bruchim was founded in 2021 by Lisa Braver Moss and Rebecca Wald with a goal of making non-circumcision acceptable in American synagogues.

See also

• Beyond the Bris
• Jewish medical ethics
• Jews Against Circumcision (J.A.C.)
• Metzitzah b'peh