Monoteisme en geweld : 'n perspektief op die standpunt van J. Assmann

Abstract

The problem of monotheism and violence, as put forward by Assmann in a recent article "Monotheismus und Ikonoklasmus als politische Theologie", is addressed. Violence in a religious context more often than not emanates from a paradigm of exclusive monotheism. The origin of this kind of violence can be traced back to people in position of power who held the opinion that the truth was entrusted to them alone and that their enemies were also the enemies of their god. This also held true for interest groups in Judah. Old Testament literature promoting violence should be read critically within the broader context of books like Genesis, Ruth, Jonah and New Testament writings.