Abraham a Key Person in Jewish History

Abraham A Key Person in Jewish History

Sophia Taylor

REL/134 World Religious Traditions II

November 17, 2014

Marion Pierre

Abraham A Key Person in Jewish History

                                          Introduction

In this paper it will talk about Abraham and his life and importance in Jewish history. This paper will point out a key event that in the history of Judaism that is connected to Abraham. It will also explain rituals, symbols, and sacred texts that is associated with Abraham. There is so much to learn and know about Judaism. Jewish history goes back some two thousand years or longer. It is said to be a major historical event with the destruction of the second temple of Jerusalem by the Romans. This in turn bought about the end of the temple based ceremonial religion of that region Abraham and the widespread dispersion of its people to lands far away from Israel.  (Molloy, 2012)

                                                   Abraham Life and Importance

Abraham was first known as Abram. He was called by God to leave his home for another land. Abraham trusted the lord to go out and start a journey that the lord gave him to do. By Abraham taking this journey as commanded by the lord, this journey became significant to Judaism because it was seen as establishing a claim to the region now called Israel. When Abraham left on his journey as commanded it became a pilgrimage of great importance, because it now made him, his son Isaac, and his grandson Jacob the patriarchs of Judaism. (Molloy, 2012) Abraham’s importance in Jewish history was marvelous. God had assured him of land and many followers. In turn God made a covenant with Abraham which now means Abraham and his followers must be circumcised as a sign of their relationship with God. This comes with a promise from God to have land and protection. As Abraham grew stronger in his faith, God told him to offer his son Isaac as a burnt offering to prove his faith. Abraham obeyed and agreed and brought Isaac to Mount Moriah where he laid him at the altar, but at last minute the lord said not to kill Isaac but gave him a ram instead. This is what some would call made Abraham a friend of God.

                                           Key Event

As we know there were a lot of key events in Judaism history. Not all were connected to Abraham however. Abraham was the founding father of the Jewish nation. He was the first patriarch called by God. Abraham paved the way for Judaism. If he had not followed the orders of God it probably would not exist. With Abraham being as obedient as he was he was able to gain followers.

                                              Symbols, Sacred Texts, Rituals