Jew

Jew

A Jew is a person who is a member of the Jewish people, an ethnoreligious group originating from the Israelites and Hebrews of historical Israel and Judah. Jews have a shared cultural and religious heritage, and Judaism is the traditional religion of the Jewish people.

Etymology

The term "Jew" derives from the Hebrew word "Yehudi" (יהודי), which originally referred to a member of the tribe of Judah or the people of the Kingdom of Judah. Over time, it came to refer to all adherents of Judaism.

History

The history of the Jewish people is extensive and complex, spanning thousands of years. It begins with the biblical patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and continues through the establishment of the kingdoms of Israel and Judah, the Babylonian exile, and the subsequent return to the land of Israel.

Ancient Period

The ancient period of Jewish history includes the formation of the Israelite tribes, the establishment of the united monarchy under kings Saul, David, and Solomon, and the division into the northern Kingdom of Israel and the southern Kingdom of Judah.

Exile and Diaspora

Following the destruction of the First Temple by the Babylonians in 586 BCE, many Jews were exiled to Babylon. This event marked the beginning of the Jewish diaspora, where Jewish communities established themselves outside of the land of Israel.

Second Temple Period

The Second Temple period began with the return of some Jews to Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the Temple under Persian rule. This era saw the rise of various Jewish sects, including the Pharisees, Sadducees, and Essenes.

Medieval and Modern Periods

Throughout the medieval period, Jews lived in various regions, including Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa, often facing persecution and expulsion. The modern period includes the emancipation of Jews in Europe, the rise of Zionism, and the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948.

Religion

Judaism is the monotheistic religion of the Jewish people, characterized by the belief in one God and the teachings of the Torah. It encompasses a wide range of cultural and religious practices, including the observance of the Sabbath, dietary laws (kashrut), and various festivals such as Passover and Yom Kippur.

Culture

Jewish culture is rich and diverse, encompassing language, literature, music, and art. The Hebrew language is central to Jewish religious texts, while Yiddish and Ladino have been historically significant in Jewish communities.

Demographics

Jews are found worldwide, with significant populations in Israel, the United States, and various European countries. The Jewish population is diverse, including Ashkenazi, Sephardi, and Mizrahi communities, each with distinct cultural traditions.

Also see

• Judaism
• History of the Jews
• Jewish culture
• Zionism
• Antisemitism
• Jewish diaspora