Question 1: Describe the significance of the Torah in Judaism.

Answer: The Torah is the most sacred text in Judaism, containing the first five books of the Hebrew Bible. It is considered the divine revelation from God to Moses and guides Jewish law, ethics, and traditions.

Question 2: Explain why the Sabbath (Shabbat) is important to Jewish believers.

Answer: The Sabbath is a weekly day of rest and spiritual reflection observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening. It commemorates God's rest after creation and strengthens family and community bonds.

Question 3: List three key symbols associated with Judaism and briefly explain their significance.

Answer: The Star of David symbolizes Jewish identity and faith; the Menorah is a candelabrum representing the miracle of Hanukkah; the Mezuzah is a parchment scroll on doorposts reminding Jews of God's presence and commandments.

Question 4: Describe the process and significance of a Bar Mitzvah.

Answer: A Bar Mitzvah is a ceremony marking a Jewish boy’s coming of age at 13, where he is recognized as responsible for observing Jewish commandments. It usually includes reading from the Torah and a celebratory gathering.

Question 5: Explain the purpose of the Jewish prayer shawl, known as a tallit.

Answer: The tallit is worn during prayer to serve as a physical reminder of God's commandments. Its fringes, called tzitzit, symbolize the commandments that Jews are obliged to follow.

Question 6: Draw a simple sketch of a Menorah, including all its main features. Label the parts clearly.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a candelabrum with seven or nine branches, with the central or additional candles representing the miracle of Hanukkah. Labels should include 'branches', 'central stem', and 'candles'.

Question 7: Describe the main differences between Orthodox and Reform Judaism.

Answer: Orthodox Judaism adheres strictly to traditional Jewish laws and customs, including gender separation in worship. Reform Judaism is more liberal, allowing for modern interpretations of practices and more gender equality.

Question 8: Identify and explain two major Jewish festivals and their significance.

Answer: Passover commemorates the Israelites' escape from slavery in Egypt, marked by the Seder meal. Hanukkah celebrates the miracle of the oil lasting eight days in the rededication of the Second Temple.

Question 9: Explain the importance of Jerusalem in Judaism.

Answer: Jerusalem is considered the holiest city in Judaism as it is the site of the ancient Temple and the place where many key religious events took place. It is also the focus of Jewish prayers and aspirations for peace.

Question 10: Sketch a diagram of the layout of a traditional Jewish synagogue and label the main areas.

Answer: A correct sketch should include the Ark (where Torah scrolls are kept), the bimah (platform for reading Torah), seating areas, and possibly the entrance. Labels should clearly identify each area.