One of the most characteristic factors of the traditional religions of Judaism and Christianity is the fact they are monotheistic, meaning followers acknowledge one God. Historically, monotheism came to be through the religion of Abraham and the religion of ancient Israel. It is important to note, that while the religion of Israel worshipped the clan God, “God of the Father” also known as “Yahweh, they also worshipped fertility gods, Ba’al and Asherah (Ludwig, 2006, (p. 367). Initially, Israelis believed Yahweh could only be worshipped within the land of Israel. “The prophet Isaiah saw the invading armies of the Assyrians as Yahweh’s rod of anger sent against the Israelites” (p.368). Visions of such prophets persuaded followers to see God not as a tribal God who is equal to human beings, but rather, God has universal power. This belief is not only held by Jews but also Christians and Muslims.
Looking more in depth into the beliefs of Jews, followers of the religion have recited what is known as the Shema twice a day. The reciting of Deuteronomy 6:4 is held with much …show more content…
According to an interview by Mercadante (2014) one individual who did not identify with any religion but believed in a higher power, stated that she believed in a plan as well. In other words, life events do not just occur because they can but for a reason. Similar to how Jews have tried to explain evil and suffering, she used examples of karma, being tested by a higher force, or punishment for a past deed. Another theme found in the responses of many interviewees was the idea of free will and God’s connectedness yet independence from the world. While many hesitated to commit to a particular religion or denomination, many held the basic beliefs of free will, forgiveness and repentance – all of which can be found in the religions of Judaism and
Looking more in depth into the beliefs of Jews, followers of the religion have recited what is known as the Shema twice a day. The reciting of Deuteronomy 6:4 is held with much …show more content…
According to an interview by Mercadante (2014) one individual who did not identify with any religion but believed in a higher power, stated that she believed in a plan as well. In other words, life events do not just occur because they can but for a reason. Similar to how Jews have tried to explain evil and suffering, she used examples of karma, being tested by a higher force, or punishment for a past deed. Another theme found in the responses of many interviewees was the idea of free will and God’s connectedness yet independence from the world. While many hesitated to commit to a particular religion or denomination, many held the basic beliefs of free will, forgiveness and repentance – all of which can be found in the religions of Judaism and