Islam is based on the belief in Allah, a god they believed was more powerful than any other God. Allah means “the god” in Arabic and is described as the creator and provider of human destiny. Islam followers are called Muslims. They believe that Muhammad, the founder of Islam, was chosen by god to fe the final prophet and messenger to humanity. To live by Islam is to live in harmony with all creations. Muslim believe that Islam teaches someone how to be an effective member of family and community. Islam in monotheistic, meaning they believe in one god. It was established in 622 B.C. They worship in a building called a mosque. Muslims read the Qur’an, the main religious text of Islam. They believe it was written by god.
Judaism History:
Judaism began 4000 years ago with Abraham and the Hebrews. According to their belief, Abraham traveled to Israel under the command of God because of how the Hebrews were being treated. He also traveled to Egypt to save the Hebrews from slavery. Judaism in monotheistic, they also believe in only one God. They believe in the Torah, which was the laws given to Abraham by God (The Ten Commandments). Judaism was founded in 1300 B.C. The Tenakh is the collection of writings that they follow. They worship in buildings called temples.
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Religious Symbols
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Birth Rituals
The incorporation of the child into the community takes place with the naming of the child. Naming for girls takes place in synagogue service. Naming for boys takes place during the Covenant of Circumcision (brit milah) eight days after birth.
Rites of Initiation: Bar Mitzvah and Bat Mitzvah
In Judaism, a child is not required to observe the commandments until the age of 12 (for girls) and 13 (for boys). In preparation for their new status, Jewish children attend special religious education at the synagogue where they study Hebrew and learn the meaning of the commandments. Upon reaching the "age of accountability" the child is obligated to observe the commandments of the Torah (Law) and is considered a Son of the commandment (bar mitzvah) or daughter of the commandment (bat mitzvah).
Rituals of Mourning | |
Death represents the greatest and most difficult transition that people in any society must face. On the one hand, the status and responsibilities of the loved ones of the deceased have changed. This change in status is emphasized by the mourners' separation from the community. Indeed, the separation phase is most prominent in the rites of mourning in Judaism. Separation is especially intense immediately after the death. The family is left alone for two days during which time their only obligation is to make the necessary arrangements for the burial. There follows periods of time lasting seven days, thirty days and a full year, each with a lesser degree of separation from the community. During these times the bereaved are not expected to fulfill the normal obligations and responsibilities required of members of the community of faith. During the time of mourning, the loved ones are not only honoring the memory of the deceased, they are also assuming new roles required by separation from the loved one. |
Bloomberg, in Israel, Wins a $1 Million Prize, and then Gives It Back
By Jodi Rudoren, New York Times
Michael Bloomberg, a billionaire and New York mayor, flew to Israel last week to attend an awards show hosted by Jay Leno. Bloomberg was awarded the Genesis Prize, which is similar to the Nobel Peace Prize. He received the award because he has donated a lot of money to Judaism. Instead of keeping the million dollars, Mr. Bloomberg returned the money to Israel.
Mass on Mount Zion Stirs Ancient Rivalries
By Isabel Kershner, New York Times
Pope Francis held a mass in Jersusalem on Mount Zion last week. Mount Zion is important to Jews and Muslims. Islams believe it is the burial place for King David, a prophet in their religion. They are all fighting over control of Mount Zion. Pope Francis asked for peace during his mass. He is hoping that both Islamic and Jewish faith can share the holy land and prevent any more wars.