Judaism

The foundational sacred text of Judaism is the Torah, which comprises the five books of Moses (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy). The Torah is part of the larger Tanakh, which also includes the Nevi'im (Prophets) and Ketuvim (Writings). Rabbinic Judaism also relies on the Talmud, the vast compendium of rabbinic law and commentary compiled between approximately 200 and 500 CE.

The principal branches of modern Judaism are Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, and Reconstructionist, differing primarily in their approach to Jewish law (Halakha) and the degree to which they adapt to modern secular culture. Orthodox Judaism maintains strict adherence to traditional law, while Reform Judaism emphasizes personal autonomy and modernization. Conservative Judaism occupies a middle position, and Reconstructionist Judaism treats Judaism as an evolving religious civilization.

Judaism traces its origins to the covenant between God and Abraham, traditionally dated to approximately 1800–2000 BCE, making it roughly 3,800–4,000 years old. The foundational events include the Exodus from Egypt and the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai, and the establishment of the kingdoms of Israel and Judah in the first millennium BCE. It is widely considered the oldest of the three major Abrahamic religions.

Kosher (kashrut) refers to the Jewish dietary laws derived from the Torah that govern which foods are permissible and how they must be prepared. Key rules include the prohibition of pork and shellfish, the requirement that mammals have split hooves and chew the cud, and the strict separation of meat and dairy products. Animals must also be slaughtered according to a specific ritual method (shechita) performed by a trained professional (shochet).