World Religions Report

World Religions Report
Micdalia Roman
Axia College University of Phoenix
HUM/130
Gerald Ediger
April 11, 2010

Judaism
Are Jews a religious group or an ethnic group? Judaism has no single founder or a central leader who makes theological decision. Judaism is believed to be originated in Israel when the covenant was established between God and Abraham, more than 3,800 years ago (Barrow, n.d.). Jews believe in one God, and follow the Torah, better known as the Jewish law. This primary document was given to the Jews by the Prophet Moses more than 3,000 years ago.
The Synagogue that was visited is Temple Kol Emeth (Voice of Truth in Hebrew) 1415 Old Canton rd. Marietta, Georgia 30062. Mark Perman was the Cantor who led the service. In the Synagogue hangs a light from the ceiling. This called the Nertimid (eternal light). Long ago it was filled with oils and lit. Synagogues have window to remind everyone the world God created. The windows allow them to be appreciative of nature and wildlife. Books are reversed. The back of a book is the beginning and is read from right to left. Because this is a Reform practicing Synagogue, the women also wear a Kippa (the small piece on the back of the head). In Orthodox this is not permitted. The Synagogue had many Torahs in different sizes and are kept on the Alter. Steps are always in front of the Alter. Women are also allowed to handle the Torah, but no one can touch the paper. The oils of the hand can destroy the Torah. Long ago when the Torah was written it would be written on a continual roll of parchment paper. If there was a mistake made the whole thing would be thrown away and a new one would be started. It did not matter where on the scroll the mistake was made. Today the Torah is still written on Parchment paper, but in the present time is written in sections just in case any mistakes are made. Everyone wears a Tallit or Tillis and this is known as the prayer shawl. Each corner has fringes knotted and twisted in a... [continues]

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