Torah

The Torah, meaning “teaching” or “instruction” in Hebrew, is the central sacred text of Judaism. In traditional Jewish understanding it comprises the first five books of the Hebrew Bible—Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy—also known as the Pentateuch. These books are traditionally attributed to Moses and describe creation, the early history of humanity, the patriarchs, the Exodus from Egypt, the revelation at Mount Sinai, and a detailed framework of laws and commandments for the people of Israel.

The written Torah is complemented by the Oral Torah, a vast tradition of interpretations, explanations, and legal rulings developed by rabbis over centuries. Together, they form the basis of Halakha, the system of Jewish law and practice, subject to interpretation and debate across generations.

Torah scrolls are handwritten in Hebrew on parchment and treated with ritual care. In liturgy, the Torah is read publicly in synagogues on the Sabbath and during festival days, following a weekly cycle of portions (parashot). Communities vary in their reading schedules, but the public study and recitation of the Torah remain central to Jewish worship and education.

The Torah has greater significance beyond law and narrative, shaping ethics, ritual practices, and Jewish identity. It has a rich manuscript and translation history, including early Greek and Aramaic translations and numerous modern editions and commentaries.

In Christian contexts, the term Torah is sometimes used to refer to the first five books or to the broader Hebrew Bible; in Judaism, it denotes the canonical five books and their rabbinic interpretation.