Monotheism, Prophets, and Suffering in Ancient Religions

These flashcards cover essential concepts related to monotheism, the role of prophets, the nature of suffering, and key ideas from Hebrew scriptures.

Monotheism

The belief in one God, which developed over several centuries.

Theodicy

The justification of God; attempts to answer why an all-powerful and all-loving God permits suffering and evil.

Prophet

One who 'speaks forth' God's word; not merely a predictor of the future.

Henotheism

The belief in many gods, but with one supreme God.

Apocalypticism

The belief system that places ultimate hope in a cataclysmic end to history and views history as a cosmic struggle between good and evil.

Essenes

A Jewish apocalyptic group during Jesus’ time that believed they would participate in a purified kingdom ruled by the Messiah.

Suffering

A state of undergoing distress; in religious contexts, often explored in terms of divine purpose or trial.

Righteousness

Being right with God, often linked to following laws and ensuring justice in society.

Justice

Righteousness scaled up to a societal level, ensuring dignity and respect for all individuals.

Chesed

A Hebrew term meaning love; often associated with acts of kindness and mercy.

Wisdom Tradition

A perspective in Hebrew scripture acknowledging that bad things happen that are not direct punishments from God.

Islam

A religion centered on the belief in one God (Allah) and practicing submission to His will; emphasizes peace and justice.

Five Pillars of Islam

The foundational acts of worship and practice in Islam: Shahada (faith), Salat (prayer), Zakat (charity), Sawm (fasting), and Hajj (pilgrimage).