Dorrough Smith, Ramey/Religions of the World, 9. Judaism

This chapter explores and then interrogates four different representations of Judaism. The first representation considers the idea that Judaism is, fundamentally, a tradition of texts, examining which groups tend to favor this portrayal and why. The second representation examines Judaism as a modern religious institution, with special focus on the branches of Judaism and their major forms of practice, as well as a consideration of the types of Jews who are often left out of these major categories. The third viewpoint looks at Judaism as an ethnic identity. This includes an examination of major ethnic groups, holiday observances, lifecycle rituals, and dress, and it considers how an ethnic identity may work alongside or even in the absence of a religious identity for many Jews. The fourth and final representation examines how Jews have influenced (and been influenced by) the cultures of which they’ve been a part, including discussions (and debates) over Israel/Palestine, anti-Semitism, and the role of Jewish humor.