Definitions

• Tenakh

  The Jewish holy scriptures, made up of the Torah (Law), Nevi’im (Prophets), and Ketuvim (Writings). It is the written law.
• Talmud

  A collection of Jewish oral teachings and commentary on the Torah, made up of the Mishnah and the Gemara. It explains how to apply the laws in daily life.
• Covenant

  A sacred agreement or promise between God and the Jewish people. Key covenants include those with Abraham and Moses.
• Brit Milah

  The ritual circumcision of Jewish baby boys at eight days old, symbolizing the covenant between God and Abraham.
• Bar Mitzvah / Bat Mitzvah

  A ceremony marking a Jewish boy (Bar Mitzvah, age 13) or girl (Bat Mitzvah, age 12) becoming responsible for keeping the commandments (mitzvot).
• Mezuzah

  A small box fixed to the doorposts of Jewish homes containing a scroll with the Shema prayer. It reminds Jews of God's presence.
• Pesach (Passover)

  A major Jewish festival remembering the Exodus — when God freed the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, led by Moses.
• Magen David

  The Star of David, a six-pointed star symbolizing Judaism and Jewish identity. It is often seen on synagogues and the Israeli flag.
• Abraham

  The founding patriarch of Judaism. God made a covenant with him promising land, descendants, and blessing. Seen as the first to believe in one God.
• Moses

  The greatest prophet in Judaism. God gave him the Torah and the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai. He led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt.
• Promised Land

  The land of Canaan (Israel), promised by God to Abraham and his descendants as part of the covenant.
• Tefillin

  Small black leather boxes containing Torah verses, worn by Jewish men during weekday morning prayers as a reminder to keep God’s law in heart and mind.