In this study, Michael Hundley explores the diverse deities of ancient Near Eastern and biblical literature, from deified doors and diseases to the masters of the universe. Using data from Mesopotamia, Hittite Anatolia, Egypt, the Levant, and non-priestly Genesis and Exodus, Hundley explains their context-specific approach to deity, which produces complex and seemingly contradictory portraits. He suggests that ancient deities gained prominence primarily by co-opting the attributes of other deities, rather than by denying their existence or inventing new powers. He demonstrates that the primary difference between biblical and ancient Near Eastern presentations lies in their rhetorical goals, not their conceptions of gods. While others promote divine supremacy, Genesis and Exodus promote exclusive worship. Hundley argues that this monolatry redefined the biblical divine sphere and paved the way for the later development of monotheism and monotheistic explanations of evil.

A redefinition of the ancient conceptions of god, the relationships between them, and the rhetoric used to exalt them.

About the Author
Michael B. Hundley received his Ph.D. from Cambridge in 2010 and was an Alexander von Humboldt Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich. The author of Keeping Heaven on Earth and Gods in Dwellings as well as multiple articles, he currently teaches at Central Washington University.


Book Information
ISBN 9781108482868
Author Michael Hundley
Format Hardback
Page Count 350
Imprint Cambridge University Press
Publisher Cambridge University Press
Weight(grams) 790g
Dimensions(mm) 235mm * 158mm * 31mm