Think about the following characteristics of the three monotheistic religions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

why the Holy Land is an important site for each faith
the holy book of each faith and how it compares to other religious texts
internal differences and divisions that exist within each faith
important beliefs of monotheistic faiths
Step 1

Answer each question in 2–3 sentences. Be sure to refer to the characteristics of each religion in your response.

How are the monotheistic religions (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam) similar?
How are the monotheistic religions (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam) different?
Step 2

Answer the following reflection question in at least one well-developed paragraph.

Do you think the three monotheistic religions (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam) are more similar than different OR more different than similar? Use evidence from the lesson to support your response.

Monotheism is the belief in a single God, often with the gifts of omniscience, omnipotence and omnipresence. Nowadays the concept is usually dominated by the Abrahamic religions (Judaism, Christianism, and Islam) and contrasts with other traditions such as polytheism or pantheism.

In spite of the definition of the term some religions can incorporate variations as far as the uniqueness of the divinity. Most Christians accept the concept of the Holy Trinity in which God is encompassed in three personalities (father, son and holy spirit). Catholics also venerate the Saints who, despite not being deities, believe they can magically intercede in the lives of humans.