Judaism the Founding Elements of Essay

Another major practice first set forth by Abraham is that of the practice of circumcision done on all baby boys of Jewish faith. Abraham had initially started the practice on Isaac. It was done primarily to distinguish the Jewish people and represent a mark of the Jewish faith. This tradition has continued on into the modern era, and is still regularly practiced by those of the Jewish faith. As the generations progressed, so did the influence of the patriarchs of this chosen bloodline. Abraham's son Isaac is another major founding figure of Judaism. He continued his father's loyalty after he was chosen above his older half brother Ishmael to be the true heir of Abraham. Isaac was the son who was almost sacrificed to God, and so when God saved him in the nick of time it shows God's love for Isaac. This love is later continued through Isaac's success. Isaac is instrumental as his role as the father of Jacob, later Israel. He continues the chosen bloodline further towards its progression as an independent and flourishing state and religious tradition. Jacob is the last link in this chapter of Jewish history. After wrestling with a stranger, he renamed himself Israel, or "wrestling with God." His initial trickery and later turn towards God represents all Jewish people's struggle with God. God presents major obstacles, which may daunt the Jewish people as they go through them. However, these trials will only strengthen the rewards waiting for the Jewish people.God watches over his chosen children -- which is seen through the life of Jacob who is continually put through trial after trial, yet continually rewarded nonetheless. All three represent an extreme devotion to one single God -- one of the fundamental elements of modern monotheism.

Judaism as we know it today has seen centuries of trials and tribulations which have resulted in the definition of the modern practice today. It represents a staunch devotion to a God who will always look out for His followers. Throughout the centuries, incidents of global hatred and violence have tested the Jewish people. But as seen through the story of the prophets, passing those tests leads to infinite reward.

References

Burns, Maureen Grace. "Judaism Spiritual Beliefs." Archangels Wisdom. 2009. Retrieved 6 May 2009 at http://www.blessingscornucopia.com/Judaism_Jewish_Judaic_Talmud_Judaism_Spiritual_Beliefs.htm

Holy Bible. New International Version (NIV). Kindle Edition. 2008.

Wenner, Sara. "Basic Beliefs of Judaism." Judaism. Minnesota State University. 2001. Retrieved 6 May 2009 at http://www.mnsu.edu/emuseum/cultural/religion/judaism/beliefs.html......