What differentiates the ancient Hebrews from other Near Eastern cultures of the time?

Answer 1

Since the Hebrews and non-Hebrews lived side by side in the Near East, there may have been some borrowing in language or other minor matters. But in terms of fundamental beliefs, the two are quite different.The Hebrews, according to tradition, have always been monotheistic from Abraham onward. Even at the height of the unfortunate spread of idolatry among the less-loyal Ten Tribes, there were thousands who remained loyal to God (1 Kings 19:18).

(See: Judaism and monotheism)

Other Near Easterners, however, believed in a number of deities, which sometimes led to aberrations in people's behavior (See: Cruelties of the polytheists). This was among the reasons why Abraham the Hebrew founded ethical monotheism.

It may be noted that there are certain comparative similarities that can be found among the two ancient populations (Hebrews and non-Hebrews). According to tradition, this did not stem from borrowing, but rather from the existence of an even older tradition; the worldwide one stemming from Noah. This is, for example, why (almost all) people over the entire world believed in the existence of the soul, the afterlife, the significance of the number seven, the institution of marriage, the abhorrence of cannibalism, etc.