Final answer:
The Torah outlines the essential equality of all humans as a fundamental right based on the creation story where humans are made in God's image. This egalitarian view contrasts with other ancient cultures that had hierarchical societies, which is a significant contribution of Judaism to modern concepts of equality and human rights.
Step-by-step explanation:
The basic human right outlined in the first chapters of the Torah is the idea of essential equality of all human beings before God. This principle is established when, on the sixth day of creation, it is written that "God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them." This concept of egalitarianism is fundamental to the Jewish ethical system and the basis for this right in Judaism is deeply rooted in its beliefs, lore, and the legal system including the Talmud.
Furthermore, this view of essential human equality is distinctive when compared to the beliefs of other ancient cultures. Whereas other civilizations might have had stratified societies with pharaohs, emperors, or priests nearer to the divine, Judaism proposed that all individuals are equally significant in the eyes of God. This aspect of Jewish belief was groundbreaking and laid the groundwork for the modern ideals of equality and human rights.