Ideas

Pages discussing abstract concepts about Jews and Judaism

What Is Judaism? Level: Basic: Is Judaism a religion, a race, an ethnic/cultural group, or something more?
What Do Jews Believe? Level: Basic: The basic Jewish beliefs, including Maimonides' 13 Principles of Faith, the importance of actions over beliefs, and the importance of relationships in Judaism.
The Nature of G-d Level: Intermediate: Discusses fundamental Jewish beliefs about the nature of G-d and His relationship with the universe and with humanity.
Human Nature Level: Advanced: Discusses the Jewish understanding of human nature, what it means to be created in the image of G-d, free will, and the good and evil in all of us.
Mashiach: The Messiah Level: Intermediate: Traditional Jewish concept of the messiah (mashiach): what he will be like, what he will do, what the messianic age will be like, and why Jews do not believe Jesus was the messiah.
Kabbalah and Jewish Mysticism Level: Advanced: A discussion of Jewish mysticism and the mystical school of thought known as Kabbalah. Provides a sample of kabbalistic thought and suggestions for further reading.