Living by Faith and Tradition
Judaism is one of the world’s oldest living religions, sustained by a unique combination of beliefs and customs. More than just rituals, these practices embody a worldview rooted in faith, justice, community, and continuity.
Jewish customs include daily practices like prayer and dietary laws, as well as life-cycle events such as Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, weddings, and mourning rituals. Beliefs, meanwhile, focus on the covenant between God and the Jewish people, the importance of Torah, and living ethically.
Together, these customs and beliefs have helped Judaism endure for thousands of years, even in times of hardship and dispersion.
The Core Beliefs of Judaism
While Judaism is diverse, certain beliefs remain central:
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Monotheism – Belief in one, indivisible God who created and sustains the universe.
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Covenant – A sacred bond between God and the Jewish people, established with Abraham and reaffirmed at Mount Sinai.
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The Torah – Seen as divine instruction, guiding every aspect of life, from ethics to law.
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Mitzvot (Commandments) – Religious obligations, numbering 613, covering everything from worship to social justice.
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Ethical Living – Judaism stresses righteousness, compassion, and fairness as central to faith.
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Messianic Hope – Belief in the eventual coming of the Messiah and a future age of peace.
These beliefs are not just theological—they actively shape Jewish daily life through customs and traditions.
Shabbat: The Heart of Jewish Life
Shabbat, from Friday evening to Saturday evening, is a cornerstone of Jewish practice. It is a sacred pause, commemorating both the creation of the world and the Israelites’ freedom from slavery.
Families light candles, bless wine and bread, share meals, and attend synagogue. Work is set aside, offering time for rest, prayer, and togetherness.
Shabbat reflects the Jewish belief in sanctifying time and finding holiness in rest.
Kosher Laws: Holiness in Eating
Jewish dietary laws, known as kashrut, are a daily reminder of religious discipline. They regulate which foods are permissible and how they are prepared.
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Certain animals (such as pork and shellfish) are forbidden.
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Meat and dairy cannot be mixed.
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Slaughter must follow ritual guidelines.
For observant Jews, eating kosher is more than a diet—it is a spiritual discipline aligned with divine instruction.
Festivals: Sacred Moments in the Year
Jewish festivals embody both belief and custom, weaving together history, faith, and community.
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Passover (Pesach) recalls the Exodus from Egypt with symbolic foods and storytelling.
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Hanukkah celebrates resilience and light.
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Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur invite reflection and atonement.
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Sukkot marks the harvest and commemorates the Israelites’ journey in the desert.
Each holiday deepens Jewish identity, linking the present to the past while reinforcing core beliefs.
Prayer and Blessings: Faith in Daily Rhythm
Jewish prayer (tefillah) occurs three times daily: morning, afternoon, and evening. These prayers express gratitude, praise, and petition.
Beyond formal prayer, Jews recite blessings (brachot) throughout the day—over food, natural wonders, and even new experiences.
This custom reflects the belief that God’s presence permeates every moment.
Life-Cycle Events: Marking Sacred Transitions
Jewish customs surrounding life’s milestones embody both religious significance and community support.
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Brit Milah (circumcision): Performed on the eighth day for baby boys, symbolising entry into the covenant.
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Bar and Bat Mitzvah: Celebrating a child’s religious adulthood at 12 or 13.
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Marriage: Marked with traditions like the chuppah, ketubah, and breaking of the glass.
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Mourning rituals: Customs like sitting shiva and saying Kaddish reflect respect for life and community solidarity.
Each stage of life is sanctified, affirming Jewish beliefs about covenant, continuity, and holiness.
Tzedakah: Charity as Justice
In Judaism, charity is not optional—it is a commandment. The Hebrew word tzedakah means “justice,” highlighting the duty to support those in need.
From placing coins in a tzedakah box to major philanthropic acts, this custom embodies the belief that social justice is central to Jewish faith.
Symbols of Belief: Mezuzah and Tallit
Jewish homes often display a mezuzah, a small case containing Torah verses, fixed to doorposts as a reminder of God’s presence.
Worshippers may wear a tallit (prayer shawl), fringed with tzitzit, during prayer, symbolising commitment to God’s commandments.
These visible symbols reinforce inner beliefs through daily custom.
Community and Study: Learning as Worship
Study is not only an intellectual pursuit but a sacred duty. Jews gather in synagogues and study halls to engage with Torah and Talmud, keeping tradition alive through questioning and debate.
This practice reflects the belief that learning itself is a form of worship and a way of drawing closer to God.
Why Customs and Beliefs Endure
The resilience of Judaism lies in the balance of beliefs and customs. Beliefs offer meaning, while customs provide tangible ways to live out that faith. Together, they ensure continuity and renewal, even in times of challenge.
Conclusion: Honouring Faith at Unico Hotels
At Unico Hotels, we hold deep respect for these Jewish customs and beliefs. We understand their role in shaping identity, spirituality, and community.
That is why we are committed to offering Jewish guests not just a stay, but an experience that honours tradition. From kosher dining to spaces for Shabbat observance, we provide comfort rooted in authenticity.
We remain faithful to these traditions and aspire to create a stay that is both excellent and aligned with Jewish heritage.