the United States for training rabbis, and each sect, and for that matter, each congregation, maintains its own practices, traditions, and interpretations of Jewish law.
Jewish worship and study often takes place at a synagogue, and religious services often include prayer and readings from the Torah. Services held in a synagogue are traditionally led by a rabbi and assisted by a cantor, who leads the chanting and songs which accompany prayer.
Judaism traditionally emphasizes ethical conduct and the treatment of others “as one would wish to be treated themselves.” Thus, the doctrine which does exist through written and oral Jewish law is continually being reinterpreted to respond to modern developments.
The major body of Jewish law is found in the Torah, which consists of the Five Books of Moses (also known as the Pentateuch) and which forms the first part of the Old Testament. This law has been supplemented by oral law and interpretations of the law which comprise the Talmud.
There are 613 commandments included in the Torah, which also includes the “Ten Commandments.” These 613 commandments govern Jewish law covering such areas as philanthropy, sacrifices, prayer, ritual purity, dietary laws, and observances of the Sabbath and other holy days. The Jewish system of law, also referred to as Halacha, includes a civil and criminal justice system which is followed by observant Jews. Halacha regulates Jewish life, such as marriage and divorce, burial, relationships with non-Jews and education.
As is true with adherents of all religions, the degree to which individual Jews observe Jewish laws and traditions varies.
Among the practices of observant Jews are:
1. Dietary Laws
Strict