A History of God

"A History of God" is a best-selling book by Karen Armstrong. It details the history of the three great monotheistic traditions: Judaism, Christianity and Islam. The evolution of the idea of God is traced from its ancient roots in the Middle East up to the present day. The book has been praised for its "astounding research" and deft storytelling.

ummary

Armstrong begins with the rise of the cult of Jahweh, one of the pagan deities of Canaan. She then examines the sources of the Pentateuch by way of the four supposed authors, or groups of authors, known as "J", "E", "P" and "D". There follows an examination of the major Israelite prophets, including Isaiah, second Isaiah, Hosea and Ezekiel, and the contribution each made to the Jewish conception of God.

Armstrong then turns to the life of Jesus. She identifies his roots in the Pharisaic tradition of Rabbi Hillel and his effect on the Jewish conception of God. The death of Jesus and its attendant symbolism are examined, including the various constructions others, most notably Paul, have placed upon these events.

The book explores the rise of trinitarianism, leading to the Nicene creed, and traces the evolution of the Christian conception of God and the trinity in the respective Eastern and Western traditions.

The rise of Islam and its appreciation of the nature of God are examined. Armstrong analyses how modern Shia Islam, with its emphasis upon social action in the service of Allah was a key factor that brought about the Iranian Revolution of 1978.

Subsequent chapters examine respectively both philosophical approaches to the idea of God, and the mystical relationship with God.

Armstrong discusses the rise of modern Christian religiosity, in particular the Protestantism of Martin Luther and John Calvin.

The final chapters examine the notion of the "Death of God" and the idea of God in the post-modern world.

The book concludes with a useful annotated bibliography.

ources

*Armstrong, Karen. "A History of God." Ballantine Books. 1994. ISBN 0-345-38456-3

*Hudson, Gail. [http://www.amazon.com/dp/0345384563 Amazon Reviews]

* [http://www.helium.com/tm/587439/karen-armstrong-former-catholic Book Review: A History of God]