What you'll learn
AQA's specified Jewish beliefs about God, the covenant and the law.
God and covenant
- Monotheism (the Shema); God as one, creator, lawgiver and judge.
- The covenant with Abraham and at Sinai with Moses; the Promised Land.
Law and life
- The Torah and the 613 mitzvot, including the Ten Commandments.
- Pikuach nefesh: preserving life overrides almost all commandments.
Messiah and afterlife
- Belief in a future Messiah and a messianic age; a range of views on the afterlife.
- Orthodox vs Reform differences.
Exam tips
- Quote the Shema and reference the Torah.
- Note the diversity of belief within Judaism.
Common mistakes
- Assuming a single fixed belief about the afterlife.
- Confusing the Abrahamic and Sinai covenants.