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Historically, Jews emerged as a "scavenger" or marginalized group on the edges of advanced civilizations. Surrounded by more powerful empires—Egyptians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, Romans—they developed unique survival strategies. Their religion became a tool for community cohesion, moral code, and cultural distinctiveness in a hostile environment.
Cultural and Religious Foundations
The Jewish religion, deeply rooted in the concept of monotheism and strict ritual prescriptions, set them apart from polytheistic civilizations. Their practices, such as dietary restrictions, circumcision, and the prohibition of idol worship, served multiple functions: fostering in-group loyalty, testing commitment, and reinforcing cohesion amidst external threats.