Final answer:
Jewish people were different from their neighbors in terms of religion, culture, and experiences of discrimination. Their religious beliefs, language, cultural practices, and experiences of being considered outsiders contributed to their distinct identity.
Step-by-step explanation:
In many ways, Jewish people were different from their neighbors due to their religion, culture, and traditions. One key difference was their religious beliefs, as Jewish people followed Judaism, which included worshiping one God, observing religious rituals, and observing dietary laws, such as keeping kosher. Jewish people also faced discrimination and persecution throughout history due to their religious differences, leading to their distinct identity.
Another difference was their cultural practices. Jewish people had their own language, Hebrew, and celebrated specific holidays, such as Passover and Hanukkah. They also had distinct customs and traditions passed down through generations, such as Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, circumcision, and traditional Jewish weddings. These cultural differences contributed to their unique identity.
Moreover, Jewish people were often seen as outsiders by their non-Jewish neighbors, which also shaped their differences. Throughout history, Jewish people often lived in separate communities, known as ghettos, and faced discrimination and exclusion from the larger society. These experiences further solidified their distinct cultural and social identity.
Learn more about differences between Jewish people and their neighbors