Relationship Between the Transcendent and the Human (Leaving Cert Religious Education): Revision Notes
Relationship between the transcendent and the human
Understanding the transcendent in Judaism
In Jewish belief, the Transcendent refers to Yahweh (also called Hashem). This relationship between God and humanity is fundamentally built upon obedience to divine will. Jews believe that following God's commandments and living according to His wishes represents the most meaningful way to conduct their lives.
The sacred nature of God's name
Jewish people demonstrate profound reverence for the Transcendent through their treatment of God's name. They will not speak or write the name of Hashem because it is considered too sacred and holy. This practice reflects their deep respect and recognition of God's transcendent nature, showing that some aspects of the divine are beyond human expression.
Jews show such profound reverence for God that they will never speak or write the name of Hashem because it is considered too sacred and holy for human utterance. This demonstrates the transcendent nature of the divine that goes beyond human comprehension.
The covenant relationship
Central to Jewish understanding is the belief that honouring Hashem's ways leads to divine blessings and protection. This concept draws from Deuteronomy 11:26-28, which teaches that obedience to the Lord brings the greatest blessings. This creates a covenant relationship where faithful observance results in divine favour.
The biblical foundation for this covenant relationship comes from Deuteronomy 11:26-28, which establishes the principle that faithful obedience to God's commandments results in divine blessings and protection. This creates a reciprocal relationship between the divine and human realms.
Practical expressions of the relationship
Prayer and worship
Jews maintain their connection with the Transcendent through:
- Regular prayer as direct communication with Yahweh
- Synagogue attendance for communal worship and study
- Following traditional practices and laws that have been passed down through generations
Dietary observance (Kashrut)
Jewish dietary laws demonstrate obedience to divine commands through careful food choices. Jews eat only kosher food - items permitted by scripture. The basic principles of kashrut include specific requirements for different types of animals and food preparation.
Understanding Kosher Food Rules:
Animal Requirements:
- Mammals: Must have split hooves and chew the cud
- Fish: Must possess both fins and scales
- Birds: Cannot be birds of prey
- Insects: Generally forbidden (with rare exceptions like certain cricket species)
Food Preparation Rules:
- Dairy and meat: Cannot be mixed together
- Forbidden foods: Include pig and camel
These rules have exceptions and variations, but they form the foundation of kosher eating practices.
Sabbath observance
The Sabbath (Shabbat) runs from Friday evening until Saturday evening and represents the climax of the Jewish week. This practice stems from the Fourth Commandment, which instructs believers to keep the Sabbath holy.
During Sabbath, Jews:
- Refrain from work as commanded
- Attend synagogue services
- Share special meals, including the Kiddush meal after Sabbath service
- Avoid creative activities that demonstrate control or dominion over creation
- Remember God's rest on the seventh day of Creation
The Sabbath observance serves a dual purpose: it helps Jews obey Hashem's commandments while demonstrating their commitment to following divine wishes rather than pursuing their own agenda. This weekly practice reinforces the covenant relationship with the Transcendent.
Festival participation
Jews observe special holy days that strengthen their relationship with the Transcendent:
- Yom Kippur: A day of fasting and repentance
- Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles): Building temporary dwelling places (sukkahs) in homes to commemorate the Israelites' journey in the wilderness
These observances represent additional ways that Jews demonstrate obedience and maintain their connection with Yahweh throughout the year.
Key Points to Remember:
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The Transcendent in Judaism is Yahweh/Hashem, and the relationship is built on obedience to divine will
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Jews show reverence by never speaking God's sacred name because it is too holy to utter
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The covenant promises that honouring God's ways leads to blessings and protection
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Practical obedience includes prayer, synagogue attendance, kosher eating, and Sabbath observance
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Sabbath observance (Friday evening to Saturday evening) is central to Jewish life and demonstrates commitment to following God's commandments rather than personal desires