Five Key Differences Between Christianity and Judaism

 

Christianity and Judaism are two of the world’s oldest and most influential religions. They share a common foundation, as Christianity emerged from Judaism, and both faiths believe in one God, uphold moral teachings, and revere many of the same scriptures.

However, despite these similarities, there are significant theological and doctrinal differences that set them apart. In this article, we’ll explore five key differences between Christianity and Judaism to help you better understand these two faiths.

1. Views on Jesus

The most widely known difference between Christianity and Judaism is their belief about Jesus.

Christians believe that Jesus is the Son of God, who was crucified, died, and resurrected three days later. They recognize Jesus as the Messiah who came to announce the Kingdom of Heaven and died on the cross to cleanse humanity from its sins.

Jews do not accept Jesus as the Messiah. They believe he was merely a prophet and that the true Messiah has yet to come. According to Jewish belief, the Messiah will one day arrive to save the Jewish people and usher in an era of peace, harmony, and happiness.

Because Judaism does not recognize Jesus' crucifixion as spiritually significant, the cross holds no particular religious value for Jews.

2. Places of Worship

Another major difference is where and when worship takes place.

Christians worship in churches and traditionally gather every Sunday for communal worship.

Jews gather in synagogues for worship, observing the Sabbath on Saturdays.

3. Views on Scripture

Christianity and Judaism have different sacred texts.

Jews primarily refer to the Old Testament, particularly the first five books of the Bible, known as the Pentateuch or Torah. These books—Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy—lay the foundation for Jewish law and history.

Christians accept both the Old Testament and the New Testament as sacred scripture. However, Jews do not recognize the New Testament since it centers on Jesus, whom they do not accept as the Messiah.

4. Views on God

Christianity and Judaism differ in their understanding of God’s nature.

Christians believe in the Holy Trinity, meaning that God exists in three persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus), and the Holy Spirit.

Jews reject the concept of the Trinity and believe that God is one, indivisible being. They view the Trinity as contradictory to monotheism and see it as a misunderstanding of God's nature. Some Jews even perceive the Christian doctrine of the Trinity as a form of polytheism.

5. Religious Symbols

Each faith has its own most recognizable religious symbol.

The Cross is the primary symbol of Christianity, representing Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection.

The Star of David is the most recognizable symbol of Judaism, representing Jewish identity and faith.

Jews do not recognize the cross as a sacred symbol since they do not believe in Jesus' crucifixion as a redemptive event.

Now you know some of the key differences between Christianity and Judaism. While these two religions share some similarities, their views on Jesus, scripture, worship, and theology set them apart.

Thanks for your time here, God bless you!