The Evolution of Yahwism to Judaism: From Abraham to the Ten Commandments

The religion of the Hebrews, from the time of Abraham until the ten commandments were received by Moses, primarily took the form of Yahwism, a form of ancient Semitic religion. This period, known as the patriarchal period in biblical history, was characterized by the worship of Yahweh.

The Period of Yahwism

During the patriarchal period, the ancient Hebrews worshipped Yahweh, often referred to as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This early form of religion was not yet strictly monotheistic, but it laid the groundwork for the later development of Judaism.

The Development of Judaism in the Iron Age I

As the ancient Hebrews entered the Iron Age I period, roughly the 12th to 11th centuries BCE, Judaism began to take shape, evolving from Yahwism. This period saw the religion becoming more rigorously monotheistic, especially during the Babylonian captivity in the 6th and 5th centuries BCE. The consolidation of the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh) also played a significant role in defining the early form of the religion.

The Receiving of the Ten Commandments and the Birth of Monotheism

The crucial event that marked the transition from a simpler form of religion to a more structured and recognized form of Judaism was the receiving of the Ten Commandments by Moses at Mount Sinai, traditionally dated around 1313 BCE. This event is often considered the true beginning of Judaism in its current recognizable form.

Judaism and Its Name

It is important to note that the name Judaism only emerged much later, in the 2nd century BC, approximately 1300 years after the time of Judah, one of the sons of Jacob. The term Judaism literally means 'the religion of Judah' and did not exist during the lifetimes of Abraham, Moses, or Solomon.

The One Religion of Humankind

However, it is crucial to recognize that throughout the history of humanity, from the time of Adam until today, there is only one God and one religion, known in the Quran as "submission" to the will of God. Whether it is called Judaism, Christianity, Islam, or any other name, it is essentially this one religion that has been followed by all the prophets and messengers of God, including Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad.