Shekhinah

• What does the Hebrew word shekhinah describe?

  God's presence in the world
• Why is the term shekhinah difficult to define?

  Finite words cannot accurately describe the infinite
• What does shekhinah mean in English?

  "The majestic presence of God"
• How did the rabbis use the term shekhinah?

  For any form of human contact with God
• What does the Torah say about shekhinah's presence with Moses?

  It guided him through the wilderness
• What form did the shekhinah take on Mount Sinai?

  Cloud and smoke
• What happened to Moses' face when he encountered the shekhinah?

  It shone brightly
• Why is the tabernacle significant in relation to shekhinah?

  It is the chosen place for God's presence
• What do the other books of the Tenakh say about shekhinah?

  Prophets had visions of God's presence
• How do some Reform Jews view shekhinah according to Maimonides?

  As a light linking God and the world
• What is another perspective on shekhinah among Jewish people?

  It expresses various ways God relates to the world
• How do some believe shekhinah relates to God?

  They see them as interchangeable terms
• What role does shekhinah play in Kabbalah?

  It is a gateway to higher consciousness
• Why is shekhinah important for Judaism?

  It shows God's holiness must be respected
• What makes Jerusalem and the Temple special for some Jewish people?

  The shekhinah's presence at these locations
• What does the shekhinah's presence with Moses signify?

  Moses received the Mitzvot directly from God
• How does shekhinah relate to the concept of God's presence in the world?

  Believers might encounter shekhinah anytime
• What does shekhinah illustrate about God's nature?

  God is beyond human thought and understanding
• How does shekhinah relate to modern theological debates?

  It helps relate God to gender discussions
• How does shekhinah facilitate dialogue between Jews and Christians?

  It aids in their search for God together
• What is Mount Zion known for?

  The holy hill in Jerusalem
• What does the term Rabbi refer to?

  An ordained Jewish religious leader
• What is the tabernacle?

  The holy place containing the Ark
• What was the Temple built by Solomon?

  The center of worship in Jerusalem
• What does Exodus 33 say about God's presence?

  "My presence will go with you"
• What does Exodus 19 describe about Mount Sinai?

  It was covered with smoke
• What does Isaiah 6 say about the Lord?

  "I saw the Lord seated on a throne"
• What are the arguments for and against the importance of shekhinah in understanding Judaism?

  Arguments for:

  • Shekhinah is not needed to understand Judaism's main features.
  • Key beliefs include one God, covenants, Mitzvot, and the Messiah.

  
  

  Arguments against:

  • Shekhinah illustrates major Jewish beliefs.
  • It shows God's reality beyond human thought.
  • God's holiness must be respected.
  • Moses received Mitzvot directly from God.
  • Special connections to shekhinah make Jerusalem and the Temple holy.
• What is the significance of the shekhinah in Jewish worship?

  It emphasizes God's holiness and respect
• What year was the Temple destroyed?

  70 CE
• How does shekhinah relate to the concept of holiness in Judaism?

  It signifies the need for respect towards God
• How does the concept of shekhinah influence Jewish identity?

  It connects Jewish people to God's presence