Judaism, Christianity, and Islam (often referred to as the Abrahamic religions) differ significantly from the religions of the Sumerians and Egyptians in several fundamental ways. Here's a breakdown of the key distinctions:
1. Monotheism vs. Polytheism:
* Abrahamic Religions: Strictly monotheistic, meaning they believe in *one* God. This God is considered the creator and sustainer of the universe, and is omnipotent (all-powerful), omniscient (all-knowing), and omnipresent (present everywhere).
* Sumerian and Egyptian Religions: Polytheistic, believing in *many* gods and goddesses, each with specific domains, powers, and responsibilities. These gods were often anthropomorphic (having human-like qualities) and interacted with the world and humans in complex ways. Egyptian religion, in particular, had a vast and complex pantheon.
2. Concept of God/Gods:
* Abrahamic Religions: God is often seen as transcendent (existing beyond and independent of the material universe) and immanent (involved in the world). He is typically described as just, merciful, and demanding ethical behavior from his followers. He has a personal relationship with humanity. God is often conceived of as being without form or physical attributes.
* Sumerian and Egyptian Religions: Gods were often tied to specific places (cities, rivers, the sun), natural forces, and human endeavors. They had distinct personalities, strengths, and weaknesses, and could be influenced by offerings and rituals. Gods were often represented in human or animal form, or combinations thereof. The gods in these religions were not necessarily concerned with the ethical behavior of humans in a way that impacted their afterlife.
3. Ethical Codes and Moral Law:
* Abrahamic Religions: Strong emphasis on ethical monotheism. Moral laws, such as the Ten Commandments (in Judaism and Christianity) and the principles outlined in the Quran (in Islam), provide a framework for righteous living. Emphasis on social justice, compassion, and personal responsibility. Belief that actions in this life have consequences in the afterlife.
* Sumerian and Egyptian Religions: While there were concepts of justice and proper behavior, the emphasis was more on maintaining cosmic order (Ma'at in Egypt) and appeasing the gods through offerings and rituals. Moral behavior was less explicitly linked to one's fate after death. While concepts of an afterlife existed, the primary goal was often to ensure the continued existence of the deceased through proper burial and offerings, not necessarily to be judged for their ethical conduct.
4. View of Humanity:
* Abrahamic Religions: Humans are created by God in his image and have a special relationship with him. Humans are endowed with free will and are responsible for their actions. There is a concept of inherent human dignity and worth.
* Sumerian and Egyptian Religions: Humans were often seen as created to serve the gods. In Sumerian myth, humans were created as slaves for the gods. In Egypt, the Pharaoh was considered a divine ruler, and the common people existed to maintain the social order and support the Pharaoh's rule.
5. Scripture and Revelation:
* Abrahamic Religions: Each religion has its own sacred texts (Torah, Bible, Quran) believed to be divinely inspired or revealed. These texts provide guidance on faith, practice, and moral conduct. The concept of prophets who receive messages from God is central.
* Sumerian and Egyptian Religions: While there were religious texts (hymns, myths, spells), they were not considered divinely revealed in the same way as the scriptures of the Abrahamic religions. Religious knowledge was often passed down through priests and scribes. The emphasis was more on maintaining tradition and performing rituals correctly than on interpreting a single, authoritative text.
6. Afterlife Beliefs:
* Abrahamic Religions: Belief in an afterlife where individuals are judged based on their faith and actions in this life. Concepts of heaven and hell (or similar reward/punishment systems) are common. Emphasis on personal salvation or redemption.
* Sumerian and Egyptian Religions: Belief in an afterlife, but the focus was often on ensuring the continuation of existence rather than a moral judgment. The Egyptian Book of the Dead, for example, provided spells and guidance to help the deceased navigate the underworld and achieve immortality. The Sumerian afterlife was a bleak, shadowy place.
7. Relationship to History and Lineage:
* Abrahamic Religions: Emphasize a linear view of history, with God working through specific individuals and events. The concept of a chosen people (e.g., the Israelites in Judaism) is important.
* Sumerian and Egyptian Religions: While history and genealogy were important, the religious emphasis was more on maintaining cyclical rhythms of nature, the Pharaoh's role in upholding Ma'at (order), and performing rituals to ensure the well-being of the community.
In summary:
The shift from Sumerian and Egyptian religions to the Abrahamic religions represents a significant change in worldview. The Abrahamic religions emphasize monotheism, a transcendent God, ethical monotheism, personal responsibility, and a linear view of history. Sumerian and Egyptian religions were polytheistic, focused on appeasing the gods and maintaining cosmic order, and emphasized cyclical time and the importance of ritual.