Following the traditions of the Jewish religion is a theological doctrine that includes a combination of different approaches and practices that have been formed over the centuries. Sacred place and Sacred time are the crucial components of this commitment since the rise of Judaism is based on numerous historical references explaining specific norms and requirements. Synagogue visits, pilgrimages to the Promised Land, and other aspects associated with the criterion of place in Judaism form a solid background for this religion. However, in terms of role and influence, Sacred time is a more significant factor in determining the importance of Judaism and the impacts of its core tenets on people’s lives.
Sacred Jewish holidays are rooted in ancient times and explain the specific principles of Judaism that true believers are to follow. Kukla (2021) cites excerpts from the Torah and mentions the concept of Shabbat as one of the most important elements of the Jewish religion. According to the rabbi, strict adherence to behavioral, eating, and other norms at a specific time is a prerequisite for the implementation of religious dogmas interpreted in the context of the Scripture (Kukla, 2021). A person is to honor the holidays and fulfill the mandatory conditions, for instance, eat matzah, on certain days, while the place for these purposes is not of fundamental importance. Therefore, the concept of time is more important than place in Judaism.
The Jewish religion is built on rituals that are designed to maintain faith. As Marks et al. (2018) state, Sacred time is a concept that helps structure life, put it in order, and provide reverence in the face of chaos. Regarding Sacred place, there are individual requirements for visiting the synagogue, but most of the time, Jews spend outside the places of worship. In this regard, this is more relevant not where but when specific principles and dogmas of the Jewish religion are observed, which explains the importance of the Sacred Time.
References
Kukla, E. R. (2021). Sacred time and space. My Jewish Learning. Web.
Marks, L. D., Hatch, T. G., & Dollahite, D. C. (2018). Sacred practices and family processes in a Jewish context: Shabbat as the weekly family ritual par excellence. Family Process, 57(2), 448-461. Web.