Introduction
Judaism is a religious current that Jews follow because of the particular contract that binds them to God. Judaism is similar to Christian ideas in many ways, so there are similarities in perceptions of the basic commandments. We can speak of a special relationship between Jews and God because they perceive him differently, as well as their way of knowing the end of the path.
Jewish Understanding of God
In Judaism, the relationship with God is as unique as in other religious movements. “Judaism is a faith of action” because, in Judaism, the primary reason for a relationship with God is a transaction (Jewish Faith and God, 2009). All actions performed by Jews are “acts of worship” because it is their direct obligation to fulfill God’s conditions for his condescension (Jewish Faith and God, 2009). The relationship with God must be explicit, and the family is where God realizes his promises (Sacred Narratives, 2023). This understanding of God allows Jews to follow the values of caring for the family and keeping God’s laws.
Salvation
In Judaism, salvation is realized through following the seven main commandments. Jews believe in “salvation in olam ha-bah” in a future world devoid of worldly concerns such as sin, drink, and water, anointing (Afterlife and Salvation, 2023). Instead, salvation offers a new world where there is room for everyone if they have done good works, prayed, and repented. Jews believe that “God will take action in response to prayer,” so public prayer is an act of unity that will bring one closer to olam ha-bah (Prayer in Judaism, 2009). Salvation is the end of the religious journey, which can only be achieved by full observance of the Jewish commandments.
Conclusion
Consequently, Judaic beliefs about understanding and relating to God are realized through the transaction. Fulfilling the divine commandments is the work of the Jews, for they have made a contract with God and are waiting for a blessing. It is realized through salvation – olam ha-bah – to which one can aspire. Striving will pay off if one does good deeds and participates in prayer.
References
Afterlife and salvation. (2023). Patheos. Web.
Jewish faith and God. (2009). BBC. Web.
Prayer in Judaism. (2009). BBC. Web.
Sacred narratives. (2023). Patheos. Web.