Judaism key concepts

• Aron Hakodesh


  The holy Ark containing the Torah scrolls
• The Aron Hakodesh faces Jerusalem
• Kashrut

  • The body of Jewish law dealing with what foods can and cannot be eaten
  • The word 'Kashrut' means fit, proper or correct
• Kippah


  • A cap worn by Jewish boys and men during services
  • Some Jews wear the Kippah at all times, it reminds them of God's presence
• Ner Tamid

  'Eternal light', a lamp constantly lit above the Ark which symbolises God's presence
• Omnibenevolence


  The state of being all-loving and infinitely good - a characteristic attributed to God
• Omnipotence


  The all-powerful, almighty and unlimited nature of God
• Orthodox


  • A major branch of Judaism which adheres faithfully to principles and practices of traditional Judaism
  • They believe the law of the Torah is eternal and unchanging
• Rabbi


  • A religious teacher and leader with authority to make decisions on issues surrounding Jewish law
  • The Rabbi is the chief religious leader in a synagogue and leads services and ceremonies
• Reform


  • A major branch of Judaism that embraces diversity of Jewish law interpretations
  • They believe that Jewish law is inspired by God and Jews can decide which laws to follow
• Shabbat


  • Day of spiritual renewal and rest
  • Beginning sunset on Friday and ending sunset on Saturday
• Shema


  • A prayer declaring Jewish faith, said by Jews twice daily
  • It states there is only one God
  • It is often placed in the Mezuzah case and tefillin
• Synagogue


  House of assembly, a place for Jewish public prayer and study