What is considered the holy book of Judaism?

The Torah is considered the holy book of Judaism because it serves as the central reference of the religious Judaic tradition. It consists of the first five books of the Hebrew Bible, also known as the Pentateuch, which includes Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. These texts contain the laws (mitzvot) and teachings that form the basis of Jewish belief, practice, and identity.

The Torah is revered not only for its religious commands but also for its narratives that recount the history of the Jewish people, their covenant with God, and the moral and ethical frameworks that guide their lives. It is traditionally read aloud in synagogues and is central to Jewish worship and study, making it foundational to Judaism as a whole. The significance of the Torah is underscored by its role in Jewish festivals and daily life, such as during the celebration of Simchat Torah, marking the completion and restart of its annual cycle of readings.

In contrast, the other texts mentioned—Zoroastrian Avesta, Quran, and Bhagavad Gita—are sacred in other religions: Zoroastrianism, Islam, and Hinduism, respectively, and they hold different beliefs, practices, and historical contexts