"The Process Leading to the Emergence of Monotheistic belief systems in the ancient Near East and the time frame in which this development took place continue to be topics of scholarly debate. The present volume is dedicated to a fresh look at both issues by a group of scholars who do not espouse standard views and answers." "Exploring specific issues and developments in the religious belief systems associated with the deity Yahweh from the late monarchic through the Hellenistic period, these seven innovative essays challenge the commonly held view that monotheism was a defining feature of ancient Israel from its very beginning. Designed to help readers rethink the issues in light of recent research in biblical studies, Jewish studies, ancient Near Eastern history, the history of religions, archaeology, and numismatics, these essays put forth a set of stimulating proposals that are not dismissed."--BOOK JACKET.Title Summary field provided by Blackwell North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved