Judaism


	Ancient monotheistic religion and culture of the Near Middle East, a central factor in the subsequent development of Christianity and Islam. No single historical figure responsible for its foundation, Judaism emphasizes a succession of covenants between the Jews and God revealed through the prophets. Judaism exhibits similarities with other ancient religions in the Levant and Mesopotamia, suggesting that they share a common source. Principal doctrinal elements include belief in a single personal God, YHWH (often transliterated Jehovah), who shares a special relationship with the Jewish people embodied in the covenants, a belief in a forthcoming Messianic Age (the nature of which varies according to interpretation), and a belief that Israel is the land given to the Jews by God. The collection of Jewish scriptures or Torah ("Law"), is held to be a revealed text and is supplemented by spoken tradition, the Oral Torah, which was recorded in the Mishnah. Historically, the Jewish religion has resisted persecution in a number of forms since its inception, and until the modern day. Since the foundation of the state of Israel in 1948, Judaism has once again reclaimed its traditional homeland. The Jewish diaspora is represented most strongly in Europe and the United States.

	General Judaism Jewish Student Online Research Center A vast compilation of resources for the study of the Jewish religion, from current events to historical or scriptural studies. A project from the American-Israeli Cooperative Enterprise. Princeton University Library Jewish Studies Resources A mix of academic and devotional resources on the Jewish religion, somewhat difficult to navigate, but extensive. Judaism and Jewish Resources A well-organized portal to resources on Judaism; this site has been in existence for seven years. Jewish Community Online's Internet Resources: Most Useful Websites: Branches of Judaism A listing of links of various branches within Judaism. Orthodox Jewish Virtual Library: Orthodox Judaism A brief explanation of Orthodox Judaism, with links to certain texts. Orthodox Union The official site of the Orthodox Union, includes many resources. Soc.Culture.Jewish Newsgroups Frequently Asked Questions Another concise explanation of the development of Orthodoxy. Liberal/Reform Reform Judaism The official site of Reform Judaism. A somewhat simple site, but with essential introductory information, news, links, and organizations. World Union for Progressive Judaism Website for this international organization. Liberal Judaism The official site for the Union of Liberal & Progressive Synagogues