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Judiasm

Countries of origin

Depends on what you consider the origin -- The Jewish religon views Abraham as it father, therefore the origin could be Ur. Since that is where he came from. Ultimately the jews were given what is now known as Isreal, as a "promised land" in the bible, so that could also be considered the origin.

Historical figures and events

Abraham, Isaac, Jacob (renamed Israel), Moses

Major events -

Abraham is told to sacrifice Isaac, but stopped by God just before. This is a fore-shadowing of the coming messiah and his sacrifice.

Moses leads the people out of egyptian slavery to the promised land.

Central beliefs

One God - named Jehovah (psalms 83:18).

Belief that they are a Chosen people.

Live according to the laws set out in the Old testament, primaly the 10 commandments.

Nature of God

Mono-theistic. One God figure, an almighty creator. Spirit form.

Texts

Pentatuech (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy)

Talmud - The Talmud is a vast collection of Jewish laws and traditions

Ritual and practice

Do not eat "unclean" animals primarily pork.

Celebrations include Chanukkah, the Jewish festival of rededication, also known as the festival of lights, is an eight day festival beginning on the 25th day of the Jewish month of kislev. This is specifically a celebration of when the temple was rededicated to Jehovah after Anotiochus had dedicated it to Zeus.

Ethics and morality

Jewish law includes within it a blueprint for a just and ethical society, where no one takes from another or harms another or takes advantage of another, but everyone gives to one another and helps one another and protects one another. Again, these are not merely high ideals; the means for fulfilling these ideals are spelled out in the 613 commandments.

Christianity

Countries of origin

Antioch was where followers of Christ were first called Christians-- (Acts 11:26)

Historical figures and events...