Jealous Gods and Chosen People: The Mythology of the Middle East : Book Review

"Jealous Gods and Chosen People" by David A. Leeming provides a fascinating exploration of the concept of jealousy within religious traditions across history. In this thought-provoking book, Leeming delves into the origins of jealousy among gods and its impact on their chosen people.

The author begins by examining various mythologies and religious texts, including Greek, Hebrew, and Hindu, to reveal the pervasive presence of jealousy among gods. Through compelling examples and anecdotes, Leeming illustrates how jealousy influences the gods' interactions with humanity and shapes religious beliefs and practices.

Leeming also explores the notion of chosen people, investigating why certain individuals, tribes, or nations are believed to have been selected by gods. Through careful analysis, he uncovers how this concept of chosenness often sparks jealousy among different religious groups, resulting in conflicts and tension throughout history.

Furthermore, the book delves into how jealousy among gods and the belief in chosen people have influenced moral codes and ethical principles within various religious traditions. This analysis sheds light on the complex interplay between religious belief systems and social dynamics.

Overall, "Jealous Gods and Chosen People" offers a captivating examination of jealousy within religious contexts. Leeming's thorough research and engaging storytelling make this book valuable to anyone interested in the intersection of psychology, mythology, and religious studies. By exploring the origins and manifestations of jealousy among gods and its impact on their chosen people, Leeming provides readers with a deeper understanding of religious traditions throughout history.

What are readers saying?

"Jealous Gods and Chosen People" by David A. Leeming has garnered a range of responses from readers. The book delves into the captivating subject of religious mythology and its influence on cultures throughout history. While some readers appreciated Leeming's perceptive analysis and engaging writing, others found the book lacking in depth or excessively fixated on certain religions.

Many readers lauded David A. Leeming's vast knowledge and expertise in the subject matter. They found his exploration of religious mythology to be thought-provoking and well-researched. The author's ability to establish connections between different religious traditions and their underlying themes was highly regarded by these readers. They considered the book to be enlightening and educational.

However, there were also readers who felt that the book fell short in certain areas. Some reviewers expressed their expectation of a more comprehensive examination of various religious myths and their impact on cultural narratives. They remarked that the book concentrated too much on specific religions, like Judaism and Christianity, while neglecting to delve into other traditions to the same extent.

Additionally, a few readers found the writing style to be dry and scholarly, making it challenging to fully engage with the material. They thought the book lacked a cohesive narrative flow, making it more difficult to follow and comprehend the concepts being presented.

Despite these criticisms, many readers still found value in "Jealous Gods and Chosen People." They appreciated the book's endeavor to shed light on the intricate relationship between religious mythology and cultural identities. They found Leeming's insights intriguing and pertinent, leading them to reflect on their own beliefs and understanding of religion.

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