Chumash (Judaism) facts for kids
The Chumash (pronounced Choo-mash) is a special book for Jewish people. It's the printed version of the Torah, which means "teaching" or "instruction." Think of it as a textbook, different from a long, handwritten Torah scroll used in synagogues.
The name Chumash comes from the Hebrew word ḥamesh (חמש), which means "five." This is because the Chumash contains the first five books of the Hebrew Bible. Sometimes, it's called Ḥamishah Ḥumshei Torah, meaning "five fifths of Torah."
These five books are also known as the Five Books of Moses or the Pentateuch (a Greek word meaning "five books"). They tell important stories and laws that guide Jewish life.
What are the Five Books?
The Chumash is made up of these five books:
- Beraishis (also known as Genesis): This book tells the story of creation, from the beginning of the world to the early history of the Jewish people, including figures like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
- Shemot (also known as Exodus): This book describes the story of the Israelites' slavery in Egypt and their amazing escape, led by Moses. It also includes the giving of the Ten Commandments at Mount Sinai.
- Vayikra (also known as Leviticus): This book focuses on laws and rules for priests and the Jewish people, especially about how to worship and live a holy life.
- Bamidbar (also known as Numbers): This book tells about the Israelites' journey through the desert after leaving Egypt, including their challenges and adventures.
- Devarim (also known as Deuteronomy): This book is like a farewell speech from Moses to the Jewish people before they enter the land of Israel. He reminds them of God's laws and encourages them to follow them.
Why is the Chumash Important?
The Chumash is very important in Judaism. It's studied by people of all ages, from children learning about their heritage to adults who spend their lives understanding its deep meanings. It teaches about history, faith, and how to live a good life according to Jewish traditions. Many Jewish prayers and holidays are connected to stories and laws found in the Chumash.
Images for kids
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Chumash from Basel, 1943, in the Jewish Museum of Switzerland’s collection.
See also
In Spanish: Jumash para niños
