Torah

The word Torah holds dual meaning in the Jewish faith:

The Five Books of Moses of the Tanach, also called the Torah Chumash. The Torah is copied by specialized scribes onto parchment scrolls and is treated with great care and respect by Jewish congregations. It is kept in special cabinets in the sanctuary. The term Torah is sometimes also used to describe the larger body of Jewish law and Scripture.

The Oral Torah, also called the Torah Sheba’al Peh. This is often thought of as an oral tradition or an oral history that is endless. It includes reading of text, debate of additional writings such as the Talmud or the Kabbalah, the stories or lessons from additional works, other teachings and emerging opinions.

Do not substitute terms such as Old Testament or Bible for Torah when discussing Judaism. See also Tanach.

← Return to Chapter T

User feedback survey

Please take a moment to tell use how you use the OAJ Style and Accessibility Guide.

Open survey
How I describe my profession. (Required)

Select as many as apply.

Where I work. (Required)

Select as many as apply.

How I use the OAJ Style and Accessibility Guide. (Required)

Select as many as apply.

How often I use the OAJ Style and Accessibility Guide. (Required)

Select only one.

Other guides I use. (Required)

Select as many as apply.

The information given within the Feedback Form will be used for service improvement only and are strictly confidential.

Thank you for your participation!

Didn’t find what you need?

Try searching the Style and Accessibility Guide in the box below

Donations build this guide

The Style and Accessibility Guide is built, maintained and free to use because people like you have generously donated to this project. Consider giving $5 a month — or any amount you choose.