What made monotheism unique among early belief systems? Lesson Question What made monotheism unique among early belief systems?

GPS Standard SSWH1: Analyze the origins, structures, and interactions of societies in the ancient world from 3500 BCE/BC to 500 BCE/BC. c. Explain the development of monotheism, include: the concepts developed by the ancient Hebrews.

Vocabulary Canaan Torah Abraham Monotheism Covenant Moses Israel Judah Tribute

Ancient Hebrews are the only surviving nation of people who lived in the Fertile Crescent. Today, they are known as Jews. Their religion is called Judaism.

Religion Monotheistic Believed in God “Yahweh” Yahweh appeared to a nomad named Abraham. Father of Judaism God promised to give Abraham and his descendants a land of their own if they worshipped only Him (around 1500 BCE). After years of wandering the desert, they eventually settled in the land of Canaan (modern day Israel), which was “flowing with milk and honey.” Around 1400 BCE, the Jews migrated to Egypt to work for the invading Hyksos people. After about 100 years, the Hyksos were kicked out of Egypt, and the Hebrews (Jews) were made slaves in Egypt.

The Hebrews The Exodus Moses led the enslaved Hebrews out of Egypt around 1200 BCE. The Hebrews were the slaves of the pharaoh, probably Ramses II (“Ramses the Great”). The word “Exodus” means departure, or the departure from Egypt. Before the pharaoh set the Hebrews free, several plagues (which did not affect the Hebrews) afflicted Egypt including: The Nile River turned to blood Frogs Gnats or lice Flies Plagues Boils Hail and meteors Locusts Eclipse of the sun Death of first born

The Hebrews Monotheism: Belief in one God Polytheism: Belief in many gods Covenant: An agreement Noah and the “Ark of the Covenant” Moses and the “Ten Commandments” which he received from Yahweh on Mt. Sinai Torah: means “law” in Hebrew the first five books of the Bible Tabernacle: A shrine or place of worship