Henotheism In The Bible

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Recommended: Abraham demonstration of faith and obedience to God

Rolling, C. Essay 2

Henotheism is related in that it recognizes many gods yet chooses to be committed to one, but leaves room for other deities. Many cultures in ancient times believed in more than one god but honored one god above others. The revolutionary belief that a single god could require his devotees to honor no other gods is the cornerstone of the Mosaic religion. Henotheism allegiance to one god while conceding that others also exist- characterizes numerous biblical passages scattered throughout the Old Testament.
(Harris 86)

Who is like you, O Lord (YHWH), among the gods? (Exodus 15:11) Israel’s God is “incomparable” in his justice and saving power, but he is not the only deity in the universe.

“For the Lord is a great …show more content…

6:3). There is no evidence in the Pentateuch that the patriarchs worshiped any of the gods of the land of Canaan. However, Jacob’s wives and members of his household worshiped other gods: “Jacob said to his household and to all who were with him, ‘Put away the foreign gods that are among you’” (Gen. 35:2).

“You shall have no other gods before me” (Exodus 20:3). There is no evidence in the Pentateuch that the patriarchs worshiped any of the gods of the land of Canaan. However, Jacob’s wives and members of his household worshiped other gods: “Jacob said to his household and to all who were with him, ‘Put away the foreign gods that are among you’” (Gen. 35:2).

The ancient Israelites were not fully developed monotheists. The Bible is filled with prohibitions against worshipping or serving other gods. There are almost one hundred references found in the Hebrew Bible forbidding the worship of pagan gods. (claudermariottni.com)

“Do not invoke the names of other gods” (Exodus 23:13)
“Do not follow other gods, any of the gods of the peoples who are all around you”

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