Jews vs. Christians: What's the Difference?
Edited by Janet White || By Harlon Moss || Updated on October 13, 2023
Jews are adherents of Judaism; Christians follow Christianity.
Key Differences
Jews trace their spiritual lineage to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, believing in the covenant made by God with the patriarchs. Christians, while recognizing the Old Testament, believe Jesus Christ is the Messiah and the foundation of their faith.
Jews adhere to the teachings of the Torah, Talmud, and other sacred texts, emphasizing monotheism and God's relationship with the people of Israel. Christians, meanwhile, have the Bible containing both the Old and New Testaments, with emphasis on Jesus' teachings, crucifixion, and resurrection.
For Jews, significant rituals and ceremonies such as Passover, Hanukkah, and Bar/Bat Mitzvah hold importance. For Christians, observances like Christmas, Easter, and Baptism carry central significance.
While Jews await the coming of the Messiah, Christians believe the Messiah, Jesus Christ, has already come and will return again.
Jews have various denominations like Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform Judaism. Christians are divided into many denominations, including Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox.
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Comparison Chart
Central Figure
Moses, Abraham
Jesus Christ
Holy Book
Torah, Talmud
Bible (Old & New Testament)
Place of Worship
Synagogue
Church
Major Festivals
Passover, Hanukkah
Christmas, Easter
Key Belief
Awaiting the Messiah
Jesus is the Messiah
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Jews and Christians Definitions
Jews
Followers of Judaism.
The Jews have a rich cultural and religious history.
Christians
Followers of Christianity.
Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus on Easter.
Jews
People who identify with Jewish ethnicity, regardless of religious beliefs.
Many Jews around the world celebrate Hanukkah.
Christians
Members of churches or denominations believing in Jesus as the Messiah.
Many Christians wear crosses as symbols of their faith.
Jews
Those who practice Jewish customs and traditions.
The Jews have a unique way of celebrating the Sabbath.
Christians
People who believe in the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Christians read from the Bible during their services.
Jews
Descendants of the ancient Israelites.
The Jews have faced numerous challenges throughout history.
Christians
Those who follow the New Testament teachings.
Christians emphasize the importance of love and forgiveness.
Jews
Members of the broader Jewish community.
Many Jews gather in synagogues for prayers.
Christians
Adherents of the largest world religion, based on the life and teachings of Jesus.
Christians around the world celebrate Christmas on December 25th.
Jews
To bargain shrewdly or unfairly with. Often used with down.
Christians
Professing belief in Jesus as Christ or following the religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus.
Jews
To haggle so as to reduce (a price). Often used with down.
Christians
Relating to or derived from Jesus or Jesus's teachings.
FAQs
What is the holy book for Christians?
Christians follow the Bible, comprising the Old and New Testaments.
What sacred text do Jews follow?
Jews follow the Torah, Talmud, and other Jewish scriptures.
What is the significance of Christmas to Christians?
Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ for Christians.
What's the Jewish New Year called?
The Jewish New Year is called Rosh Hashanah.
What are the primary denominations among Jews?
Jews have denominations like Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform Judaism.
Where do Christians worship?
Christians worship in churches.
Do Christians all believe the same doctrines?
While core beliefs are similar, Christians have various denominations with differing interpretations.
What language is sacred to Jews?
Hebrew is the sacred language for Jews.
What language is the New Testament written in?
The New Testament was originally written in Greek.
What is baptism in Christian practices?
Baptism is a Christian ritual of initiation, usually involving water.
Do Christians observe the Sabbath?
Yes, though the day varies; many observe Sunday, while others, like Seventh-day Adventists, observe Saturday.
Who are the Christians?
Christians are followers of Christianity, a religion based on the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Do Jews believe in Jesus?
While Jews recognize Jesus as a historical figure, they don't believe he's the Messiah.
Is Jesus central to Christians?
Yes, Christians believe Jesus is the Messiah and the Son of God.
Are all Jews religious?
No, some Jews identify more with Jewish ethnicity than religious practices.
Who are the Jews?
Jews are adherents of Judaism and may also refer to those of Jewish ethnicity.
What are the main Christian denominations?
Christians are divided into denominations like Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox.
What is the Jewish place of worship?
Jews worship in synagogues.
Do Jews celebrate Easter?
No, Easter is a Christian holiday. Jews have Passover around the same time.
What is a Bar/Bat Mitzvah?
It's a coming-of-age ceremony for young Jews, at ages 13 and 12, respectively.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
