0
One of the central beliefs of Judaism, as stated in the Talmud (Mishna, Sanhedrin 11:1) and codified by Rambam (Maimonides, 1135-1204), is that the soul continues to exist and is treated in accordance with the person's actions while he or she was alive.
The Tanakh (Hebrew Bible) doesn't dwell at length on the afterlife; and nor do we spend a lot of time speculating on its details. However, that is not meant to diminish from its importance. Rather, the Torah implies that we are to use the bulk of our energies in keeping God's ways and commands in this world, with our feet firmly planted on Earth; while nonetheless not losing awareness of our beliefs.
Our ancient sages stated the importance of being aware of the next world: "This world is a mere entrance-way before the afterlife" (Mishna, Avot ch.4).
All outstanding accounts are settled after this life. Some cases illustrate this point, since this entire world wouldn't be enough to reward a Moses or punish a Hitler. And while we're alive, knowledge of the future world serves as one of the motivations to keeping God's will.
The Tanakh does not delve into detail of the rewards of the righteous, because other religions could compete with even more poetic promises. Also because belief in the afterlife was shared by all ancient societies and needed little reiteration. Besides, it would be like describing the colors of a sunrise to someone who was blind from birth.
It is, however, referred to briefly in Torah verses such as Genesis 15:15, which states that "You (Abraham) will come to your fathers in peace and will be buried in good old age." Coming to his fathers does not mean simply to be buried with them, since Abraham was not buried with his ancestors. Such verses are stated many times.
The prophets are more explicit with such references (see Isaiah 26:19 and 66:24, Daniel 12:13, Zechariah 3:7, 1 Kings 8:30, 2 Kings ch.2, Ecclesiastes 12:7). The afterlife is spoken of at length in the Talmud. More than 20 pages of Talmud (Sanhedrin 90-110, Rosh Hashanah 16-18, and other passages) are given to this subject.
Wiki User
∙ 9y ago
Add your answer:
Earn +20 pts
What were Roger Sherman's beliefs?
jewish beliefs
Writings about jewish beliefs created about 2000 years ago?
Writings about Jewish beliefs created about 2000 years ago
Do early Jewish beliefs affect modern beliefs?
Almost certainly.
Is Simon Jewish?
His father was Jewish, his mother was not. His religious beliefs are unknown.
What principles of Jewish beliefs did Jesus teach?
Jesus taught all of judiasm, being a Jew himself after all the Christian reformation happened after his death
Are you with God after you die?
That is a basic tenet of belief in the Christian, Jewish and Muslim faiths. Other faiths, (notably Buddhism) have differing beliefs of life after death.
How many Jewish beliefs are there?
There are an infinite number of Jewish beliefs. But recurring themes are the ideas of one God and the importance of loving other people.
Is Simon Cowell Jewish?
His father was Jewish, his mother was not. His religious beliefs are unknown.
How is Jewish death celebrated?
Jewish death is NOT celebrated, but you can share happy memories of the deceased.
What Jewish beliefs changed since the holocaust?
None
What were Emily Dickinson's beliefs?
her beliefs were death and her love of lierature
How does the covenant relationship affect Jewish beliefs and practices today?
The covenant-relationship is the basis of Jewish beliefs and practices throughout history, since it binds us to the observance of the Torah.
