The most fundamental theological difference between Judaism and Christianity lies in the concept of the
Messiah and the nature of God.
Here's a breakdown:
* Christianity: Believes that Jesus Christ is the Messiah (the Son of God), who came to Earth to redeem humanity from sin. They believe in the Holy Trinity: God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ), and God the Holy Spirit, as three co-equal persons in one God.
* Judaism: Awaits the coming of the Messiah, a human leader who will usher in an era of peace and redemption but *not* be divine. Judaism is strictly monotheistic, emphasizing the absolute oneness and indivisibility of God. They reject the Christian concept of the Trinity and the divinity of Jesus.
In essence:
* Christianity believes the Messiah *has come* and is divine.
* Judaism believes the Messiah *has not yet come* and will be a human leader, not divine.
This difference permeates many other theological aspects, including views on:
* Salvation: Christianity believes salvation is achieved through faith in Jesus Christ as the Messiah. Judaism emphasizes that people obtain salvation through God's grace, repentance, prayer, and good deeds.
* The Old Testament (Tanakh/Hebrew Bible): Both religions share this as a foundational text, but they interpret it differently. Christians see it as foreshadowing the coming of Jesus. Jews see it as a complete covenant between God and the Jewish people.
* The Law: Christianity believes that the Law of Moses has been fulfilled by Jesus, and while moral principles remain important, strict adherence to all its ritual and ceremonial aspects is no longer necessary. Judaism emphasizes the continued importance of following Jewish Law (Halakha) as a means of connecting with God.