The One and the Many: Conceptions of Divine Unity

This theme explores the archetypal structure of monotheism, a belief system centered on the existence of a single, ultimate divine reality. It investigates how different traditions conceive of this unity, ranging from the absolute and indivisible oneness (Tawhid) emphasized in Islam to the covenantal monotheism of Judaism. The concept posits a singular source of all existence, power, and moral authority, fundamentally shaping a tradition's cosmology, worship, and ethical framework. By asserting a sole object of worship, monotheistic systems inherently reject polytheism, idolatry, and the association of partners with the divine, establishing a direct and exclusive relationship between the…

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Subthemes

Absolute Unity vs. Plurality — The spectrum of belief from an indivisible, singular God to conceptions that allow for divine emanations or persons.
Sovereignty and Dominion — The belief that the one God holds ultimate authority over creation, life, and death.
Rejection of Idolatry — The prohibition against worshipping created beings or associating partners with the divine.
Covenantal Relationship — The specific, binding agreements established between the one God and a particular community or all of humanity.

Tradition evidence (excerpts)

Islam

The absolute oneness and uniqueness of God (Tawhid) is the foundational principle and central axis of Islamic theology. Allah is understood as the sole deity, without partners. (report)

Judaism

A primary and foundational tenet is the belief in 'one ultimate divine reality (one God)'. This principle of a singular, indivisible divine being serves as the metaphysical foundation for the entire tradition. (report)

Christianity

Broader scriptural passages... reveal divine commands to the Children of Israel, including 'Do not worship except Allah; and to parents do good... and establish prayer and give zakah'. (report)

Related research

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