Course 10: Expertise in Monotheism II

COURSE DESCRIPTION

The prohibition of idolatry is one of the primary themes throughout all of the 24 Books of the Hebrew Bible, either explicitly or implicitly. This prohibition in general is also one of the seven universal commandments for all mankind, and its positive aspect of belief in one God is the foundation of the Noahide Code. In this course, you will learn how the Mosaic teachings clarify that the strength with which this universal teaching rejects idolatry extends into many areas, and all of these will be covered.

One of the topics that will be investigated is an obligation to forgo certain types of benefit that might come to a person from something that is connected with an idol. The parameters for when and how this applies will be explained, along with the prescription for how a figure of an idol can be "nullified" so that it can be used for some mundane purpose, instead of having to be destroyed. Since this extends even to negating any type of honor that might be given to idols, there are precepts you will study regarding the prohibition to make vows or oaths in the name of an idol. You will also learn how to distinguish practices that the commandment forbids as offshoots of idolatry, and these are presented as practical matters because many of them are still present in different parts of the world today. Examples that will be dealt with are soothsaying, divination, sorcery, necromancy, and some other types of occult practices. You will also learn why astrology and some particular types of fortune telling do not fall within the category of idolatrous customs.

STRUCTURE

• 6 Video Lessons
• 6 Handouts
• 6 NEW Quizzes
• 6 Audio Lessons
• 1 Certificate

CERTIFICATION

The Course Certificate will be awarded for passing the lesson quizzes with grades of 80% or better. You will then have concluded the full two-course series on Expertise in Monotheism.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

• This course provides expert knowledge in how to identify and classify past and present idolatrous practices and the objects associated with them.
• You will learn about what types of benefits are allowed, and what types are forbidden, from different aspects of idolatry.
• You will understand the meaning of "nullification" of idolatrous objects, and the status of objects that are offered to idols or used as decorations for idols.
• You will discover how some common, and some uncommon, practices in different societies are rooted in ancient pagan customs.
• You will learn how taking oaths or vows in the name of an idol is also prohibited as a precaution against giving honor or relevance to belief in the idol.

WISHING YOU

Success in becoming a Hassid Umot HaOlam (Pious of the Nations of the World), and closer to your Creator by fulfilling His Will in an outstanding way!

A Hassid Umot HaOlam  is a Gentile who earns eternal spiritual reward by accepting upon himself to fulfill the Seven Noahide Commandments. He is careful in their observance because the Holy One, blessed be He, commanded them to all mankind in the Torah, through Moses.