When pondering about Judaism and the Jews, we often always think about the horrendous years in history, known as the Holocaust. I am glad I have expanded my horizon of the knowledge relating to Judaism, to learn more about this particular monotheistic religion.
When learning and discussing the topic of Judaism, I was most fascinated with the Hebrew language they speak. It is hard to believe that we read the “wrong” way by reading left to right, and the Jewish read the “right” way by reading right to left. I was also amazed that their writings do not contain any vowels.
I also found our discussion about Seder meals interesting, because I have attended Seder meals before. Although I am Lutheran, my rural country church prepares a Seder meal for the community every year. This has been a tradition in our church for five years now.
When attending Seder meals I find the readings to be interesting. Each guest must read at least one passage, and the readings often call on particular individuals, such as the eldest person attending and the youngest person attending. These readings prompt the event’s order, such as when it is proper to eat which foods. Although the foods do not seem appetizing, it is a great experience to step out of your comfort zone, to have a taste of other cultures.
Allison I can definitely agree with your thoughts in your first few paragraphs. In my eyes, Judaism brings images on the atrocities of the Holocaust mostly, but in addition I often think of very rural individuals with the yamaka and payot, not so much modern day individuals who could very likely be living right beside us. To me I saw Judaism and very separate from my Christian world, but this discussion helped me to understand and expand my horizons about Judaism.