The Exodus, in Greek meaning "Going out" was the central and most important event in the forming of Israel. This story, being told in several books, including Deuteronomy, Leviticus and Exodus, states that the Israelites, through the Mosaic covenant, belong to Yahweh. The Exodus is important because with its help Jews were oriented to celebrate God's actions in history, contrary to some nations who at the time practiced polytheistic celebrations and is believed to have served as a foundation to many popular beliefs, from early protestants to 20th century civil-rights fighters.