Guy Stroumsa Book order

Exploring the transition from polytheism to monotheism and dualism, this volume delves into the evolution of religious practices during late antiquity. It highlights the shift from temple sacrifices to scripture-based rituals in churches, synagogues, and mosques, illustrating the transformation of religious ethos. The first part examines mental aspects of religion in the Roman Empire through early Christian texts, while the second part addresses religious communication across diverse cultures and communities within the empire.

The book studies how the religious structures of late antique religion (in particular Christianity) forged the core elements that became identified with those of the Abrahamic religions after the birth of Islam.

The end of animal sacrifice gave rise to new forms of worship, with a concern for personal salvation, scriptural study, rituals like fasting, and the rise of religious communities and monasticism. This book points to the role of Judaism, particularly its inventions of new religious life following the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE.