Which event was most important in the origins of Judaism

Answer 1

There are numerous important events in the long history of Judaism and of the Jewish people. Therefore, pointing out one single event depends on how one views Judaism. For example, is Judaism a purely individual religious confession? Does it include elements of peoplehood, nationhood, or ethnicity? Is "being Jewish" about Jewish values or Jewish worldview or about observing the commandments? Do you view Judaism as an evolving and dynamic religion or not? etc.

Nevertheless, in regards to the origins of Judaism, one can point out to three main events that had a great influence on the Judaism we know today. First, the Exodus of B'nei Yisrael out of Egypt. Although not a historical event according to most scholars, this is the origin story/myth the ancient Hebrews had told to themselves. Similarly, and this is the second event, the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai can be understood as a formative event in the origins of Judaism and of the Jewish people, whether or not it is historically accurate.

The third event, a confirmed historical event, is perhaps the most influential in regards to the Judaism we know today, is the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE by the Romans. The destruction of the Temple introduced major changes to Judaism, including (but not limited to) a shift from a sacrificial and national religion which is centered around the Temple to a Diasporic religion. It also introduced the notion of the three daily prayers and the eschatological Jewish hope of returning to Zion and rebuilding the Third Temple.