Yahweh and the gods: An exploration of the relationship between Yahweh and other gods as reflected in deutero- and trito-isaiah: A theological analysis
Abstract
This study begins by recognising the religiously plural context in which the Christian
churches currently exist. It discusses the various forces that impel the churches towards
recognition of and dialogue with those of other faiths, as well as factors that hinder this
process. It mentions a variety of ways in which theology - in particular, the theological
understanding of the relationship between the Christian churches and other faith
communities - is influenced by its context.
In an attempt to identify a model within the Judaeo-Christian tradition that will provide a
basis for inter-faith dialogue, the study proposes an exploration of the relationship
between Yahweh and the gods of the nations as reflected in the the prophetic writings
known as Deutero- and Trito-Isaiah, writings that almost certainly emerged from two
particular periods in the history of the people oflsrael: the Babylonian exile and the early
post-exilic period in Palestine.