|
||
Definition:
Along with polytheism, monothiesm is one of the best known theistic systems.
Monotheism is founded upon the idea that there is only one God, typically regarded as
the creator of all reality. This god is believed to be totally self-sufficient and
without any dependency upon any other being.
Other alleged gods might be claimed to be merely aspects of the supreme god - this argument is more commonly found when the transition to monotheism is recent and the older gods need to be explained away. More often, other alleged gods are simply denied any reality at all, or perhaps claimed to be demons tempting people away from the True Faith. This exclusivity has resulted in less religious tolerance and freedom in traditionally monotheistic cultures.
The origin of monotheism is unclear. The first recorded monotheistic system arose in Egypt during the rule of Akhenaten, but it did not long survive his death. Some suggest that Moses, if he existed, brought monotheism to the ancient Hebrews, but it is possible that he was still henotheistic or monolatrous.
The form of monotheism which is traditionally most common in the West and which is too often confused with theism in general is the belief in a personal god which emphasizes that this god is a conscious mind that is immanent in nature, humanity and the values which it has created. This god is both transcendent (independent of and distinct from the created universe) and also immanent (presently active in the created universe). Because this form of monotheism dominates so strongly in the West, it is not uncommon to find people who simply give it the label "theism," acting as though it were the only type of theism which merited the label.
Also Known As: none
Alternate Spellings: none
Common Misspellings: none
Related Resources:
What is the Philosophy of Religion?
Sometimes confused with theology, the Philosophy of Religion is the philosophical study of religious beliefs, religious doctrines, religious arguments and religious history. The line between theology and the philosophy of religion isn't always sharp, but the primary difference is that theology tends to be apologetical in nature, committed to the defense of particular religious positions, whereas Philosophy of Religion is committed to the investigation of religion itself, rather than the truth of any particular religion.
