What is the best explanation for Abrahamic religions?

0:19 What is the best explanation?
0:53 Jewish law
2:47 Best explanation
4:23 Christian “law”
7:50 Best explanation
10:26 Islamic law
12:17 Best explanation

The Abrahamic religions, namely Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, have had a profound impact on world history. As we examine these religions from legal, teleological (the study of purpose or function), and practical standpoints with over 1000 years of history to consider, it is essential to explore their origins and endgame or purpose.

Most of the Bible was written around the middle of the first millennium BCE by Levitical priests in service of Judahite monarchs. Fast forwarding to Roman-occupied Judea in the 1st c. CE, a Galilean rabbi named Joshua (Lat. Jesus) claimed to be the Messiah: the rightful successor of King David. After Jesus was crucified by Romans according to gospel accounts, worshippers began depicting him as a white man similar to early Pantokrator icons adapted from images of Zeus. Christianity eventually became the state religion of the Roman Empire and influenced numerous barbarian tribes who sacked it in the 5th c.

Jews, on the other hand, claim that Jesus was a heretic whom they stoned to death (Sanhedrin 43a), contrary to gospel narratives, and assert their status as God's chosen people, whom gentiles (non-Jews) are destined to serve (Shabbat 32b:6).

Since Christianity is a lawless religion (cp. Daniel 7:25), it has supported every kind of ruler and rule. For instance, common law—an ever-changing blend of culture that includes Christian principles—prescribed various tortures and capital punishments like the Bloody Code. Many Christians still believe in a white male God who must be worshipped or risk going to hell (e.g., the Spanish Requirement of 1513).

Islam, meanwhile, acknowledges that Hebrew prophets were righteous but believes that Jews and Christians have strayed from this path. It posits a distinct rule of law and vision of paradise compared to Judaism and Christianity. Unlike colonial empires, Muslims are indigenous to their countries with the exception of Turks who invaded them before converting to Islam themselves.

In conclusion, understanding the origins and evolution of Abrahamic religions is crucial for grasping their current influence on global culture and politics.