Role of the temple in Judaism

Role of the temple in Judaism

Role of the temple in Judaism

Judaism is a religion based on family lineage of the hebrews. They worshipped in the Temple which replaced the shrines and cultic sites they worshipped. The first temple was built by Solomon the son of David. In the temple, the daily morning offering, which was a prayer service, afternoon and special offerings were done. The psalms were also recited relating to the sacrifices (Mordechai 327). These psalms include: the days psalm and the new month psalm. During thanks giving offerings, the thanks giving psalm was recited. They had prayers such as Shema and Priestly blessing which included reading the ten commandments. However, they were taken into captivity by the Babylonians and their temple was destroyed. This happened because they had sinned against God through idolatry, murder and licentiousness. They were driven out of the land they were given by YHWH (Mordechai 328). Christianity emerged from Judaism after the second temple was destroyed. They went to the temple and studied Torah as the most important religious act, and circumcision ritual was practised.

Development of protestant reformation.

            Reforms came up due to the difference in worship views among two Christian groups. There were two groups of Christians. Some reformist were seeking martyrdom. Some claimed that God had set 16th century to be time for reformation. The Roman catholic had become very corrupt, and political rulers wanted to practise their powers through church (Schaff 74). They differed on the issue that one would perform some services for their sins to be forgiven. According to Luther, Catholic ignored the doctrine of grace which should accompany that of faith. They believed that the scripture is authoritative and true and overcomes the traditions. They opposed that pope, saints and the virgin Mary can grant indulgence and urgue that sinners are forgiven by God through His son. The reformers emphasized that priesthood is for all believers and not a certain clergy (Schaff 75).

            In conclusion, Judaism learnt that being the chosen ones of God did not mean they would not be punished. They were the earliest worshippers, followed by Christian to the protestant churches. The reformists brought alot of change in the worship life and thus brought freedom to worship the same God.

Works Cited

 Mordechai Becher, Gateway to Judaism: The What, How, And Why of       Jewish Life,     Mesorah Publications, 2005,

Schaff, Phillip.History of Christian Church.Vol.6.Peaboy,MA: Hendrickson, 2002.