The nature of G-d

Jews are monotheists, which means that they believe there is only one G-d. It is very difficult to describe G-d, because everyday language is always about ordinary things but G-d is not ordinary. G-d is ‘holy’ meaning special, separate and different.

Some Jews write the word as ‘G-d’ in case the paper it is written on is accidentally damaged or treated with disrespect. Others do not speak or write the name of G-d except in prayers, because G-d is too holy.

Jews believe:

• G-d is eternal, beyond time and space
• G-d does not have a physical body, and is everywhere at all times (omni-present)
• G-d is the creator of the world and everything in it
• G-d has a purpose for the world
• G-d is completely good and completely loving
• G-d is interested in how people behave, and wants them to treat each other properly
• G-d is all-powerful (omnipotent) and all-knowing (omniscient)
• G-d judges each individual