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Jewish monotheism came about as part of the Deuteronomistic reforms of King Josiah in the seventh century BCE, although the failed earlier reforms of Hezekia may have included proposed monotheism. Certainly, Hezekia was motivated by the need to develop national unity, following an influx of Israelite refugees, and the same concerns may have exercised the mind of Josiah in addition to asserting cultural independence from Babylon. Some believe that at first, Judaism was not so much monotheism, but henotheism - devotion to a single god while accepting the existence of other gods.

Monotheism was a novel concept in the world. It had been tried briefly in Egypt in the fourteenth century BCE, but seems not to have had any real support among the general population. Zoroastrianism was monotheistic, but was limited to remote Iranian tribes, including the Persians, who as yet had almost no influence on the outside world.

By the time of the Babylonian Exile, monotheism was well entrenched, even if not universal among the Jews. When the Persians conquered the Babylonian Empire, they found one group of captives who shared their own interest in the worship of one god - the Jews. They provided generous assistance to the Jews, in their return to Jerusalem, funding the reconstruction of their Temple and granting them the right to rebuild the city walls. It has been argued that the Persians provided this support and assistance because the Jews were by now monotheistic, or largely so.

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Who Attempted to introduce monotheism to Egyptians but was repulsed?

The pharaoh Akhenaten attempted to introduce monotheism to the Egyptians by promoting the worship of Aten, the sun disk, as the sole deity. His religious reform, which included the establishment of a new capital at Akhetaten (modern-day Amarna), faced significant resistance from the traditional polytheistic practices and the powerful priesthood of Amun. After Akhenaten's death, his successors reverted to the old religious practices, effectively repulsing his monotheistic reforms.


What makes western civilization unique?

Western civilization is unique due to its historical foundations in ancient Greece and Rome, which emphasized democracy, individualism, and rational thought. The influence of Christianity and the Renaissance further shaped its cultural and intellectual landscape, promoting values such as human rights and scientific inquiry. Additionally, the development of capitalist economies and the rule of law have played significant roles in its societal structure. This combination of philosophical, religious, and economic elements has created a distinct trajectory for Western societies.


Which ancient culture was known for the concept of monotheism?

The ancient culture known for the concept of monotheism is the Hebrews, particularly as represented in ancient Israelite religion. They worshipped one God, Yahweh, and this belief is foundational to Judaism. This monotheistic tradition significantly influenced subsequent Abrahamic religions, including Christianity and Islam. The shift from polytheism to monotheism was a defining characteristic of their cultural and religious identity.


What wo groups played a large role i shaping Romans civilization?

Two significant groups that played a large role in shaping Roman civilization were the Etruscans and the Greeks. The Etruscans influenced early Roman architecture, engineering, and religious practices, while the Greeks contributed to Roman culture through art, literature, philosophy, and governance. The blending of these influences helped establish the foundations of Roman society, law, and urban development. Together, they paved the way for Rome's expansion and cultural achievements.


What do experts believe about the sport of bull leaping?

They thought it was a religious ritual and entertainment for the civilization

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Did the Hebrews learn anything from the Babylonians?

Answer 1Yes. They learned that God is the one true God.Answer 2They learned how to more effectively create a religious culture and assemble books of religious law and customs. While historical views of Jewish development posit the development of Judaism's monotheism during the Babylonian Captivity, they ascribe the origin of the idea in Persia; the Babylonians were polytheistic.


Who Attempted to introduce monotheism to Egyptians but was repulsed?

The pharaoh Akhenaten attempted to introduce monotheism to the Egyptians by promoting the worship of Aten, the sun disk, as the sole deity. His religious reform, which included the establishment of a new capital at Akhetaten (modern-day Amarna), faced significant resistance from the traditional polytheistic practices and the powerful priesthood of Amun. After Akhenaten's death, his successors reverted to the old religious practices, effectively repulsing his monotheistic reforms.


What makes the monotheism of the Hebrews unique To what extent did their faith bind the Jews politically why was the concept of monotheism so radical for near eastern civilization?

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