Israel, Nations and Yahweh: A Journey of Realization of One and Universal God

Abstract

The religion of Israel is a religion through which God revealed himself over a long period of time. As such its growth can be noted starting with creation history and going through salvation history as expressed by the prophets. Looking at this sakation history. one question that ought to be asked is: was God's salvation intended only for Israel as his chosen people or was it to transcend this and include the entire world? In answering this question. I will investigate two main concepts of the Israelite God which seem to be very 'vital to this religion i.e. monotheism and universalism of their God. as they are purified with time. Another question that I want to investigate briefly is whether there is something connecting the tvio concepts with the traditional Kikuyu religion and whether the Kikuyu concept of God set a viable erk ironment for the eitablishment olChristianit . in the region co ered by Nyeri Catholic Arch-diocese. I will do this in the chapters Hie first chapter deals with the early formation of Israel. and the kNorld of its ancestors. In the second chapter I will look at Israel's early religion and its MON ement from polytheism to monotheism and a growth to where Israel recognized Yahwism as their religion. Here \ke shall also see the impact of Moses as the teacher of Yahwism.