Judaism
The oldest of the great monotheistic (i.e. One God) religions (1300 BC).
Basic beliefs:
There is a single, eternal, invisible God (Yahweh, Jehovah) Who created the
world. The Jews are His "Chosen People", enjoying a special relationship
with Him.
Sacred Texts:
Torah
(The Mosaic Law - basically the Old Testament Pentateuch), Talmud (Religious
& Civil Laws) composed of Mishnah (Oral Law) and Gemara (Scholarly commentaries).
Observances:
Essentially
a social and family religion concerned with every aspect of life. Lacking on
official creed or central authority, stress is laid on right behaviour, rather
than doctrine - Man's duty is to serve God with all his being. Rabbi's are scholars
and teachers rather then priests. Orthodox Jews maintain strict dietary laws,
practice circumcision etc. There are also Reform, Conservative, Liberal and
Progressive movements with less rigorous practices.