The Evolution of Monotheism

Monotheism is an incredible idea that emerges most clearly with the 8th century prophets. It's championed by the Hebrew prophets, but monotheism is tough to maintain faith in a God who's ultimately responsible for everything. Around the time of Daniel and let's just say 200 BCE, BCE as you prefer, there was a real crisis in the religious thinking of ancient Israel. And all of a sudden, the idea emerged: There must be an evil power which is dedicated to harassing the righteous.