Comparative Overview of Core Doctrines in Judaism and Christianity Based on the Torah/Pentateuch

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1. Introduction

The Torah, consisting of Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy, forms the doctrinal and narrative foundation for both Judaism and Christianity. Despite shared reverence for these texts, the two faiths have developed distinctive theological interpretations and doctrinal emphases. This article provides a systematic comparison of the main core doctrines derived from the Torah within Judaism and Christianity, highlighting commonalities and divergences across creation, covenant, law, holiness, sacrifice, and eschatology.

2. Doctrine of Creation and Humanity

Judaism

  • Affirms creation ex nihilo by a singular, sovereign God (Genesis 1:1).
  • Humanity is created in God’s image (imago Dei), conferring inherent dignity and responsibility (Genesis 1:27).
  • Emphasises humanity’s moral duty and covenantal relationship with God (Alter, 1996).

Christianity

  • Agrees with Jewish doctrine of creation and imago Dei.
  • Introduces the doctrine of original sin originating from Adam and Eve’s Fall (Genesis 3), explaining human sinfulness and need for salvation (Romans 5:12–21).
  • Salvation and restoration through Christ’s redemptive work is central (Calvin, 1559).

3. Covenant Theology

Judaism

  • Views the Abrahamic and Sinai covenants as eternal, national covenants defining Israel’s election and relationship with God (Genesis 17; Exodus 19–24).
  • Covenant obedience is expressed through the 613 mitzvot (commandments) including ritual, ethical, and civil laws (Sarna, 1989).
  • Covenant renewal is vital, as seen in Deuteronomy.

Christianity

  • Sees the Abrahamic and Sinai covenants as preparatory covenants, fulfilled and transformed in the New Covenant through Jesus Christ (Jeremiah 31:31–34; Hebrews 8).
  • Salvation is by grace through faith, not law observance (Ephesians 2:8–9; Galatians 3:24).
  • The Church includes both Jews and Gentiles united in faith.

4. Law and Holiness

Judaism

  • The Torah’s laws are divinely commanded, governing every aspect of life including ritual purity, ethical conduct, and social justice (Leviticus 19; Deuteronomy 6).
  • Holiness is understood as separation and obedience to God’s statutes (Leviticus 11–20).

Christianity

  • Upholds the moral law as reflective of God’s character and eternally binding (Romans 13:8–10).
  • Ceremonial and sacrificial laws are fulfilled in Christ and not obligatory (Colossians 2:16–17).
  • Holiness is principally a spiritual transformation through the Holy Spirit (1 Peter 1:15–16).

5. Sacrificial System and Priesthood

Judaism

  • The Levitical sacrificial system and priesthood are central for atonement, ritual purity, and worship (Leviticus 1–7; Numbers 3).
  • The Temple and priests mediate the covenant relationship.

Christianity

  • Views Jesus Christ as the once-for-all perfect sacrifice and eternal High Priest (Hebrews 7–10).
  • The Levitical system is seen as typological and fulfilled, no longer practised.

6. Divine Presence and Worship

Judaism

  • God’s presence dwells among Israel in the Tabernacle/Temple, manifesting holiness and guidance (Exodus 25; Numbers 9).
  • Worship involves ritual, sacrifice, and adherence to prescribed festivals.

Christianity

  • God’s presence is manifested fully in Jesus Christ incarnate (John 1:14).
  • The Holy Spirit indwells believers, making the Church the new temple (1 Corinthians 3:16).
  • Worship focuses on spiritual communion and grace.

7. Eschatology and Messianic Hope

Judaism

  • Anticipates a future Messiah who will restore Israel and bring universal peace (Isaiah 11).
  • Emphasises national restoration and covenant faithfulness.

Christianity

  • Confesses Jesus Christ as the Messiah who has inaugurated the Kingdom of God and will return in glory (Revelation 19).
  • Salvation is universal, encompassing all who believe.

8. Summary Table

DoctrineJudaismChristianity
CreationGod as Creator; humanity created in His imageSame; original sin and need for redemption
CovenantNational, eternal covenants with IsraelFulfilled in New Covenant through Christ
Law and HolinessTorah laws binding in ritual, ethical, and civil lifeMoral law eternal; ceremonial law fulfilled
Sacrifices and PriesthoodOngoing sacrificial system; Levitical priesthoodChrist’s sacrifice perfect; Jesus as High Priest
Divine PresenceTabernacle/Temple presence among IsraelChrist incarnate; Spirit dwells in believers
EschatologyFuture Messiah restoring Israel and peaceJesus as Messiah; universal salvation

9. Conclusion

Judaism and Christianity share a common scriptural foundation in the Torah but diverge significantly in doctrinal interpretation. Judaism maintains the Torah as the enduring covenantal law for Israel, emphasising obedience, ritual, and national identity. Christianity views the Torah as foundational but fulfilled in Christ, focusing on grace, faith, and spiritual transformation. This comparative overview underscores both shared heritage and theological distinctiveness.

10. References

  • Alter, R. (1996). Genesis: Translation and Commentary. W. W. Norton & Company.
  • Boda, M. J. (2012). The Book of Genesis. Eerdmans.
  • Calvin, J. (1559). Institutes of the Christian Religion. Translated by Henry Beveridge.
  • Sarna, N. M. (1989). Genesis: The Traditional Hebrew Text with the New JPS Translation Commentary. Jewish Publication Society.
  • Sanders, J. T. (1992). Judaism: Practice and Belief, 63 BCE–66 CE. SCM Press.
  • Schreiner, T. R. (1993). Paul, Apostle of God’s Glory in Christ. Zondervan.
  • Westermann, C. (1987). Genesis: A Practical Commentary. Eerdmans.
  • The Holy Bible, New Revised Standard Version (NRSV).

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