Monotheism In Ancient Civilizations

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• The Nation of Israel, specifically Abraham, has been credited with the birth of the first monotheistic religion; however, monotheistic principles were present in other ancient civilizations before the creation of the chosen people of Israel, specifically with Zoroastrianism and ancient Egyptian religions. • Monotheism became a logical choice for ancient civilizations after the destruction and failure of so many previous societies; monotheism would unite civilizations through the religious law and worship of a single god.

• Monotheism became different than previous “national religions” where the one god worshipped is more important than the other gods; instead, it is one true god that demands devotion - and for the Israelites, only Yaweh

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