Question 1

What is the difference between the covenant with Abraham and the covenant with Moses?

Accepted Answer

The covenant with Abraham (Genesis 12, 15, 17) is unconditional and focuses on God's promises: land (Canaan), numerous descendants, and blessing to all nations. Its sign is circumcision (brit milah). The covenant at Sinai (Exodus 19-24) is conditional: if Israel obeys God's laws (the Torah), they will be a 'kingdom of priests and a holy nation'. This covenant gives the 613 mitzvot, including the Ten Commandments, and requires obedience. While the Abrahamic covenant establishes the relationship, the Mosaic covenant provides the detailed rules for living as God's people.

Question 2

Why are there 613 mitzvot and do all Jews follow them?

Accepted Answer

According to Jewish tradition, the Torah contains 613 mitzvot (commandments), derived from the numerical value of the word 'Torah' and other sources. They cover every aspect of life: ethical behaviour (e.g., not stealing), ritual practices (e.g., keeping Shabbat), and social justice (e.g., leaving gleanings for the poor). Not all Jews observe all 613 today because many relate to the Temple (e.g., sacrifices) and cannot be performed. Orthodox Jews strive to follow as many as possible, while Reform and Liberal Jews focus on ethical mitzvot and may adapt ritual ones. Observance varies, but the mitzvot remain a core ideal.

Question 3

How does the covenant affect Jewish daily life?

Accepted Answer

The covenant shapes Jewish daily life through the mitzvot. For example, observant Jews pray three times daily (Shacharit, Minchah, Maariv) to acknowledge God's sovereignty. Keeping kosher (kashrut) reminds Jews of their holy status. Shabbat (from Friday sunset to Saturday night) is a weekly reminder of creation and the Exodus. Acts of charity (tzedakah) and justice (tikkun olam) fulfil the covenant's ethical demands. Even blessings before eating or after using the toilet connect everyday actions to God. The covenant is not just a historical event but a living relationship expressed through obedience.

Question 4

What is the significance of circumcision in Judaism?

Accepted Answer

Circumcision (brit milah) is the physical sign of the covenant between God and Abraham (Genesis 17:10-14). It is performed on the eighth day after birth (unless health reasons delay it) and symbolises the permanent bond between the Jewish people and God. It marks a male child as part of the Jewish community and reminds Jews of their obligation to follow God's laws. For many Jews, it is a joyful ceremony (brit) that includes prayers and a naming. While some modern Jews question its necessity, it remains a central practice for most denominations.

Question 5

Are the mitzvot still relevant today?

Accepted Answer

Yes, for many Jews the mitzvot are deeply relevant as they provide guidance for living a holy life in relationship with God. Ethical mitzvot (e.g., honesty, charity) are timeless. Ritual mitzvot (e.g., Shabbat, festivals) create community and identity. However, some mitzvot are adapted: for example, the prohibition against mixing meat and milk is observed through separate dishes, and the commandment to write a Torah scroll can be fulfilled by owning Jewish books. Reform Judaism emphasises the ethical core over ritual details, while Orthodox Judaism sees all mitzvot as binding. The relevance lies in their ability to connect Jews to God, tradition, and each other.

Question 6

What does 'chosen people' mean in Judaism?

Accepted Answer

In Judaism, 'chosen people' (am segulah) refers to the belief that God chose the Jewish people to receive the Torah and be a model of holiness. It is not about racial superiority but about responsibility. The idea comes from Deuteronomy 7:6: 'For you are a people holy to the Lord your God. The Lord your God has chosen you out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession.' This chosenness involves observing the mitzvot and being a 'light unto the nations' (Isaiah 49:6). Non-Jews can achieve righteousness through the Noahide laws (seven basic moral rules). Thus, chosenness is a duty to serve God and humanity.

The Covenant and the mitzvot

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