Theological Shifts in Jewish Religious Thought

Abstract

This research explores the evolution of the concept of the divine self in Judaism, beginning with the monotheistic beliefs introduced by the messages of the prophets and culminating in the doctrinal deviations that emerged throughout history. The study highlights how Judaism was influenced by surrounding cultures, leading to a transformation in their perception of God from a deity for all humanity to a national deity exclusive to the Israelites, representing their interests and serving their parochial goals. It traces the various stages of this development, starting from the era of prophets such as Abraham and Moses, through the periods of judges, kings, division, and exile, and extending to the Persian, Greek, and Roman influences. The research also examines key deities worshiped by the Israelites, such as Baal and the golden calf, emphasizing the materialistic and anthropomorphic tendencies that characterized the Jewish conception of God. The study concludes that the Jewish faith never fully adhered to monotheism, being subject to external influences and internal developments, resulting in a fluctuating and fragmented perception of the divine.