Final answer:
The assertion that 'The resurrection is not a significant Jewish belief' is partially accurate. While concepts of resurrection are part of Jewish eschatology, they are not as central to Jewish theology and practice as they are in Christianity. Moreover, psychic phenomena related to afterlife claims do not provide universally accepted evidence of spiritual beliefs, including within Judaism.
Step-by-step explanation:
To evaluate the assertion that "The resurrection is not a significant Jewish belief" it is crucial to consider both historical and theological contexts. From a theological perspective, traditional Jewish belief does include concepts of resurrection, particularly in the context of the end times. This is evident in the books of prophetic literature such as Daniel, which mentions the awakening of those who sleep in the dust. However, resurrection as a concept differs significantly between Christian and Jewish thought. Christianity is grounded in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, an event that is central to Christian theology and liturgy. This resurrection is celebrated on Pascha (Easter) and has a direct impact on Christian belief in life after death, salvation, and the role of Jesus as the Messiah.
In contrast, while some sects within Judaism during the Second Temple period, like the Pharisees, did believe in some form of afterlife and resurrection, it was not universally accepted among all Jewish groups (e.g., the Sadducees). In modern Judaism, beliefs about the afterlife and resurrection vary, and while they are present, they do not occupy the same central role as the resurrection of Jesus does in Christianity. Jewish theology traditionally focuses more on life and duty in this world rather than detailed descriptions of the afterlife.
Moreover, it must be noted that reports of psychic phenomena and religious experiences, while often cited as evidence of spiritual realms or an afterlife, are not universally accepted proofs and have been met with skepticism. Thus, the experiences, such as apparitions or reincarnation memories, have not led to a unanimous belief in spirituality or the supernatural across different cultures and religions, including within Judaism itself.