Introduction to World Religion Flashcards
What culture had an influence on early Hebrew tradition?
Mesopotamian society seemed to have an impact on early Hebrew tradition by adopting a principle in Hammurabi’s code into Hebrew law. The two groups were close to each other. There is evidence of similar stories of flooding as in the Epic of Gilgamesh, incorporated into Hebrew folk stories.
According to Jewish tradition, why did the early Hebrew faith eventually become monotheistic?
Early Hebrews recognized multiple god-like Mesopotamians did until Moses embraced monotheism. He believed that there is only one god, named Yahweh, all other gods were made up. The Torah taught that Yahweh would reward people who obeyed his will and punish those who did not. Historical and archeological records show that between the 9th and 10th centuries BCE prophets urged people to worship Yahweh or face punishment. People were convinced this would happen and slowly the Hebrew faith became monotheistic.
What were the results of the Assyrian and Babylonian conquests of Israel and Judea?
In 722 BCE Assyrian forces conquered the northern kingdom and deported residents to other areas. Most of the exiles assimilated into local communities and lost their identities as Israelites. The New Babylonian empire conquered the Kingdom of Judah and destroyed Jerusalem in 586 BCE. Despite being relocated, most of the Israelites did not loose their identity. They returned to Judea where they became known as Jews.
What lasting legacy did the Phonecians leave?
Wait for quiz results, I am not sure what the answer is
According to “Genesis,” what is the relationship between humans and the rest of creation? What does this tell us about the understanding of the relationship between humans and nature in this religious tradition?
God created humans on the sixth day of creation.
God said that man should multiply and have control over “every living thing that moves upon the earth” - demonstrating egocentrism belief that nature serves humans.
What are the consequences of Adam and Eve’s “fall from grace” as a result of eating the forbidden fruit. List the aspects of human life that are explained by this history.
Eating the forbidden fruit is code for Adam and Eve having sexual intercourse. Before this act they were naked and unaware of their sexuality. The serpent is a metaphor for temptation. After the action they became aware and quickly put on clothes, they were no longer savage animals. God told them they must leave the garden of Eden as they are no longer innocent and would disrupt the perfect garden.
God explained that Adam and Eve must be punished. He said that Adam would starve, Eve would resent kids, love her husband despite his rule over her and experience childbearing pains. This story explains problems people face that can’t be definitively answered.
