What does Judaism say about heaven?

[Funny Face]

I'm genuinely interested, as a Christian, how heaven ties in with Judaism. I hope I don't offend anyone by asking and I hope I state this correctly as my knowledge is limited.

I know that in the Old Testament God's people sacrificed animals to atone for their sins. How do Jews receive atonement for their sins in this current day (since there is no longer blood sacrifice)? Is there atonement? Is there heaven? Where do you believe you go when you die?

[Mommal]

Aside from the belief that everyone eventually goes to Olam ha-Ba (The World to Come), Judaism leaves the concept of what happens to the soul after death very open. It is possible for Jews to believe- for example- that the souls of the dead go immediately to a place/state of being which is not particularly different from some Christian concepts of heaven, or that they go through many lifetimes of reincarnation in a mystical process of tikkun olam (mending the world), or that they merely await the coming of the Messiah.

While sacrifice was an important element of Jewish practice during the times of the first and second Temples, it was never the sole avenue to atonement. Prayer, fasting, and good deeds are all equally valid paths.

[chfriend]

I like reading Reform rabbi Marc Gellman's column in the paper. Here are his thoughts on it:

http://www.buffalonews.com/lifearts/...ry/816160.html

[lovebug]

subbing!

what a great thread! i would love to lean as well!

[GearGirl]

Judaism (reform?) always seems so rational and accepting to me. Very interesting read.