The rise, development, and spread of monotheism (the belief in one God), is one of the most significant and fascinating dimensions of human civilization. The three major monotheistic faiths are Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Judaism emerged in the second millennium. Christianity surfaced in the 1st century C.E. (Common Era), and Islam appeared in the early 7th century. Although ancient civilizations had known periods of monotheism, like the Egyptians under the rule of Akhenaton moved from polytheism and worshiping Amun to believing in One god “Aton” it is said “the Sun god” and other translations use “the Great God”. Before them, the Assyrians were united to worship the same god “Ashur” which was the first time that people connect with a god outside his temple.
Buddhism was one of the religions that started monotheist, believing in ONE super presence. But throughout time the teachings of Buddha changed and several gods and people had been worshiped, even Buddha himself.
Sikhism The religion founded by Guru Nanak in India in the 15th Century CE. There is one God, people should serve by leading a life of prayer and obedience. Sikhs believe their soul then passes through various existences and will become one with God.
While differences cultivate distinctions, there are many similarities between the three Abrahamic faiths. We can acquire a more rich and factual understanding of these religions by exploring their diversity of perspectives, the ways their traditions have changed over time, and how many of the tenets of each faith overlap with one another
Most of the monotheistic faiths originated in what is
known today as the Arab World and more specifically, within an area that spans no more than 300 miles. An emphasis on family values, charity, and respect for others are shared by these three religions. Throughout history, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam have spread from their birthplace, crossing the boundaries of race and ethnicity, with followers in nearly every country in the world. Christianity is the single largest religion in the world, with roughly two billion followers globally. Islam, one of the world’s fastest growing faiths, has an estimated 1.5 billion followers across the globe. As of the 21st century, there are roughly 12 million Jews worldwide.
Judaism, Christianity, and Islam trace their roots back to Abraham, who is considered a prophet by all three faiths. While there are differences in the ways in which the stories of Abraham are recounted, the three are united by the belief in Abraham and therefore he is considered, by many, to be the father of monotheism
