Jews

Who are the Jews?

Jews are a people whose identity blends ancestry, religion, and culture. Their origins trace to the Israelites of ancient Israel and Judah. Jewish identity can be inherited or acquired through conversion to Judaism, and it is shaped by both religious law and cultural tradition. Over centuries, Jews have maintained a sense of shared history and belonging, even as they formed diverse communities around the world. The connection to Judaism, whether practiced or not, remains central to Jewish identity for many.

Where do the Jews live?

The traditional homeland of the Jews is the Southern Levant, especially the regions of ancient Israel and Judah. This area includes present-day Israel and parts of surrounding countries. The land is varied, with hills, valleys, and desert, and it is closely tied to Jewish history and religious tradition. Today, Israel is the only country where Jews form a majority, and it remains a focal point for Jewish life and culture.

What language do the Jews speak?

Jews have spoken many languages throughout history, including Hebrew, Yiddish, Ladino, and others. Hebrew, once mainly a liturgical language, was revived in modern times and is now the official language of Israel. Jewish communities have also developed their own languages and dialects in the diaspora, reflecting their diverse histories and migrations.

How do the Jews live?

Jewish livelihoods have varied widely depending on time and place. In ancient times, many Jews were farmers, herders, or artisans. In the diaspora, Jews often worked in crafts, trade, and later in professions and business. Today, Jews are found in all walks of life, from agriculture and crafts to science, education, and the arts. Their adaptability has been shaped by both opportunity and, at times, restrictions imposed by host societies.

How is Jews society organised?

Jewish society is traditionally organized around family and community. Descent has been defined by religious law, often matrilineally, though definitions have changed over time. Marriage within the community is valued, and religious and communal leaders play important roles in decision-making. Jewish communities have developed their own institutions, such as synagogues, schools, and charitable organizations, to support social and religious life.

What do the Jews believe?

Judaism is the central religion of the Jewish people, focusing on the belief in one God and a covenant with the Jewish people. Rituals, festivals, and life-cycle events are important parts of Jewish life. Jewish art, music, and literature reflect both religious themes and the experiences of diaspora. Dress and customs vary among communities, but shared symbols such as the Star of David are widely recognized.

The history of the Jews

The history of the Jews begins with the Israelites in ancient Canaan. Over centuries, they established the kingdoms of Israel and Judah. After conquests and exiles, Jews spread throughout the Mediterranean and beyond, forming the diaspora. Major groups such as Ashkenazim, Sephardim, and Mizrahim emerged in different regions. The Holocaust during World War II killed about six million Jews in Europe. Since then, the Jewish population has slowly recovered, and the State of Israel was established in 1948 as a homeland for Jews.

Jews life today

Today, Jews live mainly in Israel and the United States, with significant communities in many other countries. The global Jewish population is about 15.2 million. Jews have legal rights and protections in many places, but antisemitism and pressures to assimilate remain concerns. Jewish culture and religion continue to adapt and thrive, with ongoing efforts to preserve heritage and support community life.

Questions people ask about the Jews

Sources and further reading

• Jews on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data

This page was written with AI assistance from the sources above and checked automatically before publishing. It may contain mistakes, and it is no substitute for hearing from the Jews themselves. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-02.