35+ Interesting Facts About Judaism

Judaism is the oldest among the three Abrahamic religions. It dates back to over 3000 years. Judaism is primarily composed of the people of Israel. Conversion from other faiths of non-Israeli people is usually not encouraged. Israeli Jews are divided into four main groups according to their religious and cultural affiliation. Around 50% are secular Jews (Hilonim) that give less importance to religion and more to culture. The smallest (9%) and the most religiously devoted group is Haredim. They reject military service and oppose Zionism. ( Source ) Jews can also be divided into ethical and geographical basis. These are Mizrahi (Middle Eastern) Jews, Ethiopian Jews, Ashkenazim (German and Northern French) Jews, and Sephardim (Iberian) Jews. ( Source ) The Jewish calendar is the oldest still in use. Its general usage started in the 9 th Century BC. ( Source ) Temple Mount in Jerusalem is the holiest site in Judaism. Other sacred sites for Jews are the Western Wall, Mount Sinai, M