Thinking through Monotheism, Henotheism, Polytheism, and Dualism in Late Antiquity

The Complexity of Defining Monotheism, Polytheism, and Dualism in Late Antiquity

In this podcast episode, the speaker discusses the difficulty of defining the terms monotheism, polytheism, and dualism in late antiquity. The episode explores how these terms are not clear-cut academic categories but more like flavors or approaches. The example is given of how belief in one god does not necessarily make someone a monotheist, as late Platonists considered themselves monotheists but were also seen as polytheists. Similarly, belief in multiple gods does not make someone a polytheist, as some Christians who referred to angels and planets as gods were still considered monotheists. The episode argues that these terms have complexities and nuances that require exploration to understand their meanings in different contexts.

The Varying Definitions of Monotheism

The speaker delves into the concept of monotheism in late antiquity. While belief in only one god is commonly associated with monotheism, the episode highlights that the definition of monotheism goes beyond mere belief. It involves the importance of worshiping and exclusive devotion to the single god while denouncing the worship of other gods. This distinction is exemplified through the Jews of the first century CE, who were monotheists in the sense that they focused on worshiping only their God and refused to worship other gods. The episode also notes the complexities within monotheistic traditions, such as the cults of saints and angels in Catholic and Orthodox Christianity, which may appear polytheistic to outsiders.

The Fluidity of Pagan Monotheism and the Role of Universalism

The podcast further explores the concept of pagan monotheism in late antiquity. It discusses how some intellectuals and religious thinkers, such as followers of Hermeticism and Platonism, believed in a single supreme God but were more accepting of diverse cultic practices. Their focus was on the universal aspect of their God rather than exclusive worship. However, the episode acknowledges that these ideas of pagan monotheism often clash with the strict universal claims and exclusivity of Christianity and Islam. It also mentions the debates among scholars regarding the usefulness of the term pagan monotheism.

Understanding the Complexity of Dualism

Finally, the podcast episode delves into the topic of dualism in late antiquity. It explains that dualism generally refers to religions that emphasize the existence of two powerful principles or gods engaged in cosmic conflict. However, the episode presents dualism as more of a vibe or approach, as the distinctions between monotheism and dualism can blur. For instance, Christianity, with its belief in the devil and demons, can be seen as having dualistic elements, despite its overall monotheistic stance. The episode argues that understanding dualism requires considering the emphasis on the power of evil or the dark side in a particular religious tradition.

Podcast episodes – The Secret History of Western Esotericism Podcast (SHWEP)

Thinking through Monotheism, Henotheism, Polytheism, and Dualism in Late Antiquity

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Quick takeaways

Deep dives

The Complexity of Defining Monotheism, Polytheism, and Dualism in Late Antiquity

The Varying Definitions of Monotheism

The Fluidity of Pagan Monotheism and the Role of Universalism

Understanding the Complexity of Dualism

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